Maintaining boats is quite similar to caring for an automobile. Maintaining your boat isn’t difficult but it is a matter of perseverance and commitment. Similar to cars the boat needs certain types of maintenance at certain points in time and at the end of each use.

Keep reading for a checklist for maintaining your boat, quick suggestions for keeping your boat in good condition, and how to schedule to have a scheduled service.

Boat Maintenance Checklist

When you purchase a boat it is important to have an action plan for maintaining it. Be aware of your current expertise and capabilities. What type of work do you know how to handle, and which services you should seek help from a professional?

For boat maintenance, you should:

Check the battery charge
Test your electronics
Test your lights Make sure you check the levels of fluids such as power steering and coolant
Change the oil Inspect the propellor
Inspect the gas tank, fuel lines, and the engines for leaks, corrosion, or cracks
Verify that the railing is secure
Ensure you’ve got all the safety equipment you need.
Check belts, and other engine components
Get your boat detailed

Simple ways to maintain a boat

Wash and wax

One of the easiest methods to increase the efficiency of your vessel is to keep the fiberglass hull free of dirt and well-lubricated. The coating of fiberglass will become chalky if waxed regularly. It can also be helpful to remove the previous coating before applying a fresh coat of wax. Unlike cars, boats lack an opaque coating, which is why the proper application of wax is essential to ensure the durability of your watercraft.

Without a sealant made of wax to protect your boat, it is likely to be prone to oxidation and will cost more to fix than it would have it properly waxed in at the beginning. Cleansing your boat both outside and inside will help prevent any build-up of mold. It is possible for mold to be sneaky and it’s better to clean your boat frequently than attempt to limit the spread of mold. Be careful about cleaning with harsh chemicals in your boat since they could affect the gel coating. A once- or twice-a-year cleaning once or twice a year will not only ensure that your boat looks great and clean, but also make sure that it’s running properly.

Wipe Off Your Boat

After a fun day at sea, grab an old towel and clean your boat off. Moisture that is left on the boat can cause the growth of mold, mildew, corrosion, staining, and many other problems. Drying off any water will make your boat last longer. Lifejackets, ropes, and towels water toys, and other equipment that is vulnerable to water or moisture retention should be taken off the boat, dried off, then put into a dry storage container after use. After you wipe everything, you should use some boat storage boxes, where you can store all your belongings without them getting wet again.

Check Metal Parts for Corrosion

Any piece of metal that is exposed from your boat can get corroded and become rusty. Make sure to check the metal parts regularly for signs of corrosion, and dry them as often as you can. The engine on your boat must also be checked for corrosion. To prevent corrosion and other issues with your engine, you should regularly clean your engine.

Regular Oil Changes

The manual will tell you the frequency you should check your oil. Generally, you should change the oil about every 100 hours. Quicky-lube shops for boats and watercraft aren’t actually available therefore, you need to take your boat to an approved specialist or dealer with an authorized service center.

Check Your Propeller

Make sure you thoroughly check your propeller. There are a lot of issues that can arise from your propeller. Therefore, you need to remove it often throughout the season of boating and check it. It’s okay to have scratches or damaged paint, however, any large dents or indications of impact need to be addressed with an experienced professional. Otherwise, it could result in loss of performance and higher consumption of fuel.

This is also an excellent chance to make sure that your water intake is free of any obstructions. A common issue is fishing line can end up in the propeller. If this happens it is best to contact the dealer to check your gearcase and make sure there haven’t been any leaks. Service to your gearcase must be handled by a skilled professional. After inspecting your propeller, you should add waterproof grease and reinstall the propeller exactly the same as you took it out.

Remove Your Battery in the Off-Season

Batteries won’t last forever, but you may extend the lifespan of your battery by dismantling it in the off-season when your boat is being stored away. It is cleaned, charged, and then store in an area that isn’t easily affected by temperature changes and the elements.

Taking A Boat in for Maintenance

You must bring your boat in for maintenance prior to the opening of the boating season and also for repairs when certain circumstances arise, such as a dented prop, corrosion in the engine, or even the need for an oil replacement. When you take your boat in for maintenance, spring servicing, or winterization It is best to make an appointment before time and arrange to arrive early.