Let's Get Ready To Boat!
Holiday season is over and January is almost through. For Florida boaters that means boating season is upon us and it's time to get your boat shipshape and ready to experience the best boating in the USA.
If your boat has been unused for a time, going through the checks on this list should help to
prevent later problems that keep you from where you want to be – on the water!
If you need help, don't hesitate to call us – that's what we're here for!
Fuel System
Inspect the fuel system for leaks or damage and pay special attention to fuel hoses, connections andtank surfaces. Evidence of a damaged fuel hose includes softness, brittleness or cracking.
Replace components when necessary and verify all fittings and clamps are properly secured.
Ensure the engine, exhaust and ventilation systems are all functioning properly.
Look before you pump! Don’t fill your tank with fuel that contains more than 10% ethanol (E10) as it will damage your engine.
Belts, Cables & Hoses
Check belts, cables and hoses because they can become brittle and may crack during winter storage, belts should fit tightly around pulleys to prevent slipping.
A worn belt may leave a black residue near the pulley and will fit loosely.
Cracks or swells on the outer jacket of throttle, shift and steering control cables may be indicate internal corrosion and imminent failure
Electrical System
Inspect all electrical connections for clean, tight, corrosion free connections. Remove corroded terminals and use a wire brush to clean them, along with all cable ends.
Charge your battery and have it tested to ensure it can hold a charge.
Electrical systems should be regularly inspected by a qualified technician.
Fluid Levels
Check all fluid levels including engine oil, power steering, power trim reservoirs and coolant.
Be sure to change the engine oil, oil filter and drive lubricants.
Propellers & Hulls
Inspect propellers for dings, pitting, cracks and distortion, damaged propellers can cause unwanted vibration and damage to your drive train.
Make sure the propeller is secured properly and replace bearings when needed.
When inspecting the hull, look for blisters, distortions and cracks.
Clean the hull, deck, and topsides using an environmentally safe cleaning solution.
Make sure the drain plug is securely in place before every launch! - This may seem like a no brainer, but you'd be surprised how often this happens)
Safety Gear
Check your life jackets to ensure they are in good condition and that there are enough on board for all potential passengers and ensure that each individual has the correct size life jacket for their body weight.
Be sure all onboard fire extinguishers are the correct class for your vessel, are fully charged and stowed in the proper place.
For any enclosed or semi-enclosed area, ensure you have at least one properly installed and working carbon monoxide detector.
Consider investing an EPIRB for situations of distress to ensure you can be found.
Take advantage of any safety inspections offered by the US Coast Guard (USCG), USCG Auxiliary or US Power Squadrons.
Happy Boating!
