Tips for Proper Boat Maintenance

No matter what type of boat you own, routine maintenance is essential to keep it running smoothly. The good news is that you can perform much of the upkeep yourself. Following some basic routines can help you avoid costly repairs in the future.

Steps for Maintaining Your Boat

  1. Wash your boat frequently. If your boat is placed in saltwater, you should wash it after each excursion. Generously spray the boat with water and use cleaners made specifically for boats. These special cleaners are designed to protect the finish of your boat.
  2. Develop a pre-launch routine to inspect the working parts of the boat. Make sure the propeller is fastened securely before each launch.
  3. Every few weeks it’s important to conduct a thorough inspection of the propeller. Remove it and look for dents, nicks and other damage. A damaged propeller will burn more fuel and reduce performance. Also, check for fishing line or other debris that has wrapped around the shaft. If this is the case, your dealer needs to inspect the gear-case.
  4. Change the oil in your boat regularly. The frequency varies by boat, but the oil should be changed at least every 100 hours of use or annually, whichever comes first.

Replacement Parts for Boats

Over time, every boat needs replacement parts. From hatch springs and screws to gas shocks and hoses, specialized marine hardware can keep your boat running well. If you have some basic mechanical aptitude, you can save a lot of money by performing basic repairs yourself. For more complex repairs, however, you need to take your boat to your dealer or a certified boat repair service.

Your boat can give you hundreds of hours of pleasure if it is maintained properly. Treat your boat with care and it will treat you well in return.

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