Maintenance Tips to Keep You Boating All Summer!

June 3, 2020 11:19 pm Published by 955 Comments

Boats, much like automobiles, must be kept up with routine preventative maintenance if they are to operate reliably and efficiently for a long time to come. Even if you feel like you treat your boat well and it doesn’t get exposed to a significant amount of wear and tear, it is still crucial to stay on top of your regular boat maintenance in Lewiston, CA, especially when you consider the financial investment you’ve put into having a boat in the first place.

Here are just a few boat maintenance tips you should keep in mind, especially now that summer has arrived and the most popular boating season is here in full swing:

  • Regular engine inspections: You should keep an eye on the engine and its general condition throughout the season. Routine engine inspections can help you find small problems before they turn into larger, more expensive ones. At least once for every 50 to 100 hours of operation, you’ll want to make a full oil change, following the instructions in your owner’s manual. This can be done quickly with today’s outboard engines. You should also keep an eye out for fuel or oil leaks, inspect all lines and hoses for signs of wear and tear, check fuel lines and clamps for corrosion and regularly lubricate moving parts with anti-corrosive product.
  • Flush the engine: This is something that should be done after every single time you take out your boat. Make sure you flush the engine with fresh water upon your return, which will help you remove potentially harmful deposits from the inner components of the engine.
  • Regularly clean: You should make it a priority to regularly clean your boat, which will help you keep it in good condition. Use biodegradable solutions for cleaning storage compartments and livewells. Dry storage areas can be cleaned with outdoor vacuums. Regular cleaning can help you prevent a buildup of dirt, mold and mildew. Clean and repair upholstery as needed.
  • Maintain your propeller: The prop is one of the most important parts of the boat, so it makes sense to keep an eye on its condition and take regular action to maintain it. Simple inspections before and after outings are a good idea to help you uncover potential problems. Make sure the prop nut and cotter pin are fully secured. You should also check for any visible signs of damage. A blade that’s bent or nicked could reduce performance and make your boat more inefficient. Look for any debris the prop may be pulling, and always keep the prop shaft properly greased.
  • Clean the floors: You’d be amazed at how much dirt and debris can get trapped in flooring. With carpeting, remove it to shake it out, vacuum it, pressure wash it, then hang it out to dry. You can also scrub decks with boat cleaners.

These are just a few of the most important tasks you must prioritize for outstanding boat maintenance in Lewiston, CA. Contact Trinity Alps Marina today with any questions you have.

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