Every boat needs proper maintenance in order to operate
efficiently for a longer period of time. Routine maintenance and small repairs
may seem like a waste of money but in the long run, they pay off. We are going
to look at 3 simple ways a boat owner can maintain this important investment.
Regular washing
This is probably the simplest way to maintain your boat.
Regular washing is important as it helps to remove any salt residue that could
cause damage on your boat’s exterior. You need to rinse the boat thoroughly
with clean and fresh water whenever you come out of the waters. This cleaning
can be done as regularly as possible because salt can easily cause corrosion
especially on the metal components of the boat. If you notice corrosion on the
fasteners and other hardware it could be a sign that the boat is not thoroughly
washed after use. You can clean the boat using a soft boat brush together with
soap. There’s certain soap that is designed for cleaning boats without damaging
its gel coat. You may even try using the car wash soap but make sure it doesn’t
cause any damage to the gel coat.
Regular oil changes
Regular oil changes are important because they help to
maintain the boat in top notch condition. The number of times you have to
change the oil will depend on the type of boat you have. You can do the oil
changes on your own or hire a professional to do them. The good thing with getting
a professional to do the oil change is that they’ll do it quickly, efficiently
and using the right tools. You also need to choose the right type of oil for
your boat. Experts recommend marine grade oil which is good for your boat
engine. Automotive oils are not designed to protect marine engines.
Check the propeller
The last important thing you need to do is to check the propeller
on a regular basis to ensure it’s in perfect state. You need to remove the propeller
and make sure it doesn’t have discarded fishing lines attached to it. These
items can interfere with the gear case and even cause boat leaks. The propeller
is also at risk of dents and other forms of wear and tear. In many cases, the
paint on the propeller will come out fast and this is normal. But dents must be
fixed because if they are ignored, they can undermine the performance of a boat
and make it burn excess fuel.
Boat repairs and maintenance should only be done by a
professional. If you suspect that something is wrong with
your boat or any of its components, it’s important to ask a contractor to come
in and check it out immediately. There are certain issues that may seem small
but can quickly escalate and undermine the performance of your boat. Consider
routine checkups to take note of any issues that come along the way. Remember
that a well maintained boat will serve you for longer.
Posted By: Stowaway Marine http://stowawaymarine.net
