Boating is one of the most pleasurable recreational experiences that you can have, and with the proper maintenance, your boat can be running trouble-free for some time. The boat takes on a whole new level of strain that a car doesn’t because after all the boat is in the water for most of its life. The salty waters that we inhabit in our lakes and rivers are what will contribute to most of the wear and tear on your boat, and when you are talking about something that can potentially cost as much as a home this is not a good thing. The modern boat has come a long way in terms of comfort and convenience in the last twenty years, and we are going to be taking a look at some of the tips that will help you to keep your boat happy and healthy.
Checking the engine frequently is, of course, the first line of defense when it comes to issues, and this should be done every 50-100 hours of running time. The routine check-up will involve checking the oil, all of the hoses, and of course the spark plugs. The boat needs to have clean oil to function properly, and today’s modern engines make it simpler than ever to change the oil in your boat as needed. The oil dipstick is generally located right on top of the outboard boat engine, which makes it easy for most do-it-yourself mechanics to reach. You’ll also want to check the engine bay for corrosion, as this can cause serious problems in the longevity of your boat and the operation.
Another smart thing to do when it comes to boat maintenance is to flush the engine after each outing because the engine is being operated in dirty water most of the time you’ll want to make sure that this gunk isn’t sitting dormant in your engine when the boat is parked. Let’s face it, most of us only pull our boats out a few times a year and other than that they are sitting dormant. There are many marine maintenance parts supply companies that will have accessories to protect and preserve this part of the boat. Boating is a wonderful way to get out and explore the beauty of the lakes and rivers, and the proper care will keep your boat running smooth.
A good rule of thumb is to use a reputable engine flushing liquid, which will completely clean out the engine and prepare the boat for an extended rest period. Flushing the engine on most modern boats is a simple task and can be done with a tool as simple as your average garden hose. Storage is a crucial element of keeping your boat healthy and on the water, which is why you should find a dedicated dry spot to store all of the boat items when it’s not in operation. A dry spot is a place where you can store life jackets, accessories, and other boat-related items where you don’t want mildew and mold to accumulate.
