How to Perform a Mechanical Audit of a Used Boat

If this is your first time buying a used boat, you still have a lot to learn. Before you even begin with the shopping process, make sure you know what the boat’s primary use is going to be. Like all other second hand purchases, buying a used boat has its risks. But there’s a lot that you can do to ensure you make a smart purchase. For instance, you must consult an experienced marine mechanic to find out if the boat was properly maintained. Don’t purchase a used boat without performing a mechanical audit. Here are some of things you should be checking when reviewing the mechanics of a used boat.

Take a close look at the boat’s engine and you can easily tell whether it’s been well maintained over the years. A very dirty engine is certainly a sign of neglect. Boat owners who clean their engines after use are certainly more likely to maintain other integral components of the boat. Remember that salt causes the outside parts of the boat to corrode so without proper cleaning, the areas will look rusty and old.

If you notice so much rust on the engine, this could be an issue with the boat’s cooling system or it could be that there’s leaking water passing through the engine. A marine mechanic will be able to advice you after noticing some of these issues. If the engine is exposed to salt for an extended period, you’ll notice some heavy deposits of grime near the seals.

You may also want to check the oil when performing this mechanical review. Using a dip stick, take a close look at the color of the oil. If you notice a foamy film inside the oil, know that there could be open seals or cracks inside the engine. You need to ask about this. Find out when the system was last checked and if any repairs have been done on it before. Ask the boat owner to provide you with a document that outlines all the work that has been done on the boat. Review this documentation to better understand the kind of maintenance work that has been done before.

The batteries also need to be in proper shape. You can assess their condition by taking the boat on a cruise. If the batteries are not very powerful, you’ll need to replace them because it’s going to be hard to operate the boat when the water is low.

Remember that an appearance review is also important as much as it may not impact on the boat’s performance. Examine the hull as well as the metal and wood surfaces and take note of any problem areas. If you notice discoloration, moss, corrosion or any other form of deterioration, make sure they are repaired before purchasing the boat. If the bulk heads are loose, think twice about purchasing the boat. Always ask the marine mechanic to give you recommendations and problem areas that must be fixed before you make the purchase.

Posted By: Stowaway Marine http://stowawaymarine.net 

Four Knots to Know!

When it comes to fishing knots, there are thousands of types. From simple to heavy weight carrying knots, the variety will surely sweep you off your feet. As a fishing enthusiast, we don't expect you to familiarize yourself with all these variants. After all, it is practically impossible to do so as the variety differs from region to region. However, the knowledge of some basic types of knots is important especially if you are planning to pursue fishing as a serious hobby.

Here is a list of some important knots that every angler must know about:

Improved Clinch Knot:

This is a common type of fishing knot used by many anglers. The core strength of this knot lies in its ability to secure the hooks, prey or swivels to the fishing rod. Being sturdy, firm and reliable, this knot's ability to work equally well against big as well as small fish is what sets it apart from the other options. Additionally, tying this bow is easy and barely takes a few minutes.

Polmar knot

Once you have mastered the Improved Clinch bow and want to progress to the next stage, Polmar bow has to be your obvious choice. Stronger than the improved Clinch knot, Polmar bow serves a similar function of securing the hook, swivel or prey to the fishing line. In spite of being easy to tie, this is one of the strongest knots known to anglers across the globe.

Blood Knot

Unlike the Improved clinch and Polmar knots, this knot is not used to fasten the hook or swivel to the fishing rod. Instead, this knot is ideal for situations when fishermen are left battling with broken rods. Yes! Using the Blood knot you can tie two similar pieces of fishing lines together. This skill comes in extremely handy especially when you are battling such emergency situations. The Blood bow is also a popular option for fly fishing.

Surgeon's knot

The next in line is the Surgeon's knot. Serving a function similar to the Blood knot, the Surgeon's knot is also equally useful when it comes to attaching two fishing lines together. However, the difference with using Surgeon's knot is that it is effective even when the two fishing lines to be connected are of different diameters. Ideal use of this knot is seen in case of fishermen who often stock their boats with broken pieces of fishing lines from different expeditions.

While this is just the basic information about these bows, you can always look up the internet for video tutorials and pictures to learn more about tying these knots. Needless to say, it takes a fair bit of practice to master these knots!

To know more about fishing tackle Australia or tie fishing knots, please check our website.

Posted By: Stowaway Marine http://stowawaymarine.net

Simple Guide for Buying Used Boats

If you love boating, then buying a boat could be a great investment. You will get to avoid boat rental expenses and restrictions. Today, buying a used boat is an appealing option. A used boat is significantly less expensive than a new one. Taking everything into account, buying used boats comes with a myriad of risks most of which you can avoid by being vigilant when making the purchase. In addition to making sure the boat is well maintained, there are a few areas you should look at.

Appearance review

The first impression counts. You may buy an expensive boat but if its body looks horrible; its value will be depleted. Salt water attacks everything. If the body is rusted, there is a good chance even the internal components are rusted. This is common where the boat was not cleaned properly. To determine whether the boat was well maintained, you need to do the following:

·       Check for moss or discoloration. Get on the boat and pick up the ropes, the flooring materials and clear out the clutter. There is no need for alarm if there is only a light discoloration. A deep discoloration means neglect and this will be a high risk investment.

·       Condition of the features. The number of things you will have to replace will tell you how much money you will have to spend on the used boat. If there are cracks, broken materials and worn-out seats, you can expect to spend more in repairs. The less the amount of money you will have to spend in repairs the better.

·       Gel-coat. Restoring the finish of a boat is not an easy task. That is why you should consider buying a boat that has been waxed at least once a year. If the Gel-Coat hasn’t been done properly, you will get a dull appearance. With such an outcome, you will definitely have to repaint the boat or live with the dullness.

The above are the three most neglected areas. Most of these areas are irrelevant to the performance of your boat but they will definitely affect its value.

Mechanical review

The mechanics of a used boat are the most important. Engines are expensive. You don’t want to buy a boat with a broken engine that will cost you a fortune to replace. To review the mechanics, you will need a test run and hire a marine mechanic to review the components. In the initial inspection, here are the questions you should answer?

·       Does the engine look clean?

·       Near the seals and gaskets, can you see heavy grime deposits?

·       Can you see rust on the engine?

·       What are the freeze plugs made up of, brass or steel? Brass is the best material.

·       What is the condition of the batteries?

When buying a used boat, you must always take the condition of the watercraft seriously. Your life depends on it when out on the waters. Falls and capsizing are the most reported types of fatal accidents. This is according to the U.S. Coast Guard. Inspect the boat thoroughly and avoid neglected used boats.

Posted By: Stowaway Marine http://stowawaymarine.net

Should You Buy a New or Used Boat?

If you are in the process of buying a boat, it’s always important to look at all the available options. The amount of money you want to spend on the boat will certainly affect your decision. A used boat will certainly cost less but there are other factors to be considered. Buying a brand new boat doesn’t necessarily mean that you made a good investment. So here are 5 questions you need to ask yourself before making a decision.

1.     Do you have financing?

If you intend to buy the boat in cash then you can buy either a used or new boat. However, for those people who are looking for financing in order to buy a boat, it’s going to be harder to get if you plan on buying a used one. Most financiers will not trust that the boat will be a good investment if it has been used before. However, you can always provide evidence that the boat is in proper state in order to secure financing. Hire your own mechanic to assess the boat before you make a purchase. Make sure whatever you are buying is worth the cost.

2.     What is the boat’s repair history?

You don’t want to buy a boat that has not been properly cared for. You’ll only spend a lot of time and money on repairs even if you bought it at a low price. Find out from the seller if the boat has any structural defects and mechanical issues. Some of these issues are quite hard to detect so that’s why you need to buy a used boat from someone you can trust. Talk to the owner’s mechanic so that you can understand the kind of repairs that have been done in the past. If the problems will keep on emerging, we would suggest you look for another boat.

3.     Have you considered the level of depreciation?

Every asset depreciates in value with time so it’s always worth considering this before buying a new or used boat. Know how much the item has depreciated and if the amount that it is going for is reasonable. Get the numbers right by comparing other used boats sold online. If the amount is too low then think twice. There are cases where people sell their used boats because they are not in good working condition. Don’t be ready to pay for a used boat because it’s offered at a low price. Ask a professional to inspect it and make sure it’s worth every dime.

4.     Will they offer after sales service?

Once you buy a new boat, there are high chances that any problems which crop up are going to be fixed by the seller. However, most individual owners who sell used boats do not offer any after sales services. This can be very risky if you are planning on making an important investment like this. You must be very confident that the used boat is in perfect condition especially if it doesn’t come with a warranty.

Posted By: Stowaway Marine http://stowawaymarine.net

Boating Terms

ABAFT - In the direction of the stern, or the rear of the boat

ABEAM - On a line that forms a right angle to the ship's keel

ABOARD - On board (of a ship or a boat)

ABOVE DECK - On the boat's deck

ABREAST - By the side of, next to or side by side

ADRIFT - Floating at random, not on the towline.

AFT - Near or in the direction of the stern of the boat

AGROUND - When the bottom of the boat touches or lodges on the ground.

AHEAD - In front of; to go in advance

AIDS TO NAVIGATION - Road signs used on the waterway, they help indicate the safety level of water

ALOFT - Above or on top of the boat's deck

AMIDSHIPS - In the middle or center of the boat

ANCHORAGE - Where a ship anchors or a suitable place to anchor

ASTERN - Towards the back of the boat

AWEIGH - When the anchor is raised and off bottom of body of water

BATTEN DOWN - To secure or strengthen the hatches and objects on the deck and hull of a boat

BEAM - The boat's width

BEARING - The direction of an object as determined by a compass

BELOW - Down below, beneath, or under the deck

BILGE - The broadest width of the bottom of the boat

BOAT - A small open vessel or watercraft.

BOAT HOOK - A pole that has a metal point and hooks that is used to maneuver logs, or retrieve objects that have fallen overboard

BOW - A boat's front section

BOW LINE - A rope that is used to tie the boat to a dock; it has a loop spliced at one end

BOWLINE A special knot that is used to create a temporary loop; there are several variations for forming a bowline

BRIDGE -Where the ship is steered or controlled.

BULKHEAD - A partition that is used to separate compartments on a boat

BUOY - A floating device used for marking locations or other hazards in the water

BURDENED VESSEL - Also referred to as Give Way; the vessel that must yield to another vessel

CABIN - The compartment used for crew members or passengers

CAPSIZE - When a boat upsets or overturns

CAST OFF - To untie or let go.

CHART - A marine map

CHINE - The line where the sides and bottom of a flat or v-bottomed boat intersect

CHOCK - Fittings used to pass ropes or mooring lines

CLEAT - Fittings used to hold ropes or lines securely

CLOVE HITCH - A temporary knot used for securing a rope or line to a piling or spar

COURSE - The direction a boat is steered.

CUDDY - A small cabin on a boat

CURRENT - The course in which the water flows

DEAD AHEAD - Straight ahead

DEAD ASTERN - The position behind the boat

DECK - Floor like coverings of the compartments of a ship

DINGHY - A small rowboat or open boat

DOCK - A pier or wharf

DRAFT - Depth of water necessary to cause the boat to float

FENDER - A cushioning device that is used to prevent the sides of a boat from damage

FLARE - Where the boat's sides spread outward, near the bow of the boat

FLUKE - Where the anchor fastens to the ground

FOLLOWING SEA - A sea swell

FORE-AND-AFT - The length of the boat from the bow to the stern

FOREPEAK - Used for storing cargo, a small section within the bow of the boat

FORWARD - Toward the front of the boat

FOULED - The encrusting of foreign matter or debris on the hull of a boat

GALLEY - The boats kitchen area

GANGWAY - The side of the boat used for the boarding of passengers

GEAR - Nautical equipment such as ropes, tackle, etc.

GROUND TACKLES - The anchor and its accessories

GUNWALE - The top of a boat's side

HATCH - Located in the deck, it is an opening that has a secure cover

HEAD - A nautical commode

HEADING - The direction that the bow of the boat is pointed in

HEADWAY - The progress the ship makes as it moves across the water

HELM - The wheel that steers the ship

HELMSPERSON - The one who steers the boat

HOLD - A compartment used for storing cargo, located below the deck

HULL - The boat's main body

INBOARD - The inside of a boat

INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY - ICW: A body of water that is used for boats to travel upon

JETTY - A structure that extends or jets out from the shore

KEEL - The line of the boat that extends through the center; also a barge

KNOT - A unit of speed that is understood to mean per hour (6080.27 feet)

LATITUDE - The distance north and south of the equator; latitude is measured in degrees

LEEWARD - The direction in which the wind blows

LEEWAY - The direction a boat drifts to leeward of the steered course

LINE - The rope or cords that are used on a boat

LOG - A record of nautical activities

LONGITUDE - Distance measured in degrees that determines east and west from the Prime Meridian

MIDSHIP - The middle of a ship; between the bow and stern

MOORING - Anchors or fastenings used to secure a boat

NAUTICAL MILE - The unit used for measuring nautical navigation; one nautical mile equals 1,852 meters or 6,076 feet

NAVIGATION - The act of passing over water in ships or boats

NAVIGATION RULES - Steering and sailing rules that govern how boats and ships pass over water

OUTBOARD - The outside of the hull of a boat

OVERBOARD - The place located outside the side or edge of a boat

PIER - A wharf or structure that is used as a landing place

PILE - A pole made of wood, stone, or metal used to support a pier.

PILING - Used for driving piles; or a structure composed of piles

PILOTING - Coastal navigation that utilizes soundings and buoys

PORT - Place in the water that is used to provide shelter for boats

PRIVELEGED VESSEL - A vessel that has the right of way according to Navigation Rules

QUARTER - The upper sides of a boat; between the stem and the mast

RODE - The line or rope attached to an anchor

RUDDER - Used for steering a boat; a hinged plate made of fiberglass, wood or metal that is mounted to the stern

RUNNING LIGHTS - Required lights that are displayed on a boat between sunrise and sunset

SATELLITE NAVIGATION - Navigation that uses satellite transmission via radio waves and equipment located on the boat

SCREW - The propeller on a boat

SCUPPERS - Holes in the side of a ship, used to allow water to drain.

SEAMANSHIP - The skill of navigating a boat or ship.

SEA ROOM - A location in sea where there is no obstructions; the space that is safe for navigating a boat or ship

SEAWORTHY - A boat that is deemed fit and safe for navigating or passing over water

SECURE - Tighten, or make fast

SET - To put forth in a specified direction

SLACK - To loose, not secure, or fast

SOUNDING - The measurement to determine the depth of water

SQUALL - A brief windstorm; usually comes on suddenly and is accompanied by either snow or rain

STARBOARD - It is the right side of a boat when one is facing forward

STEM - The part of the bow that extends the most forward

STERN - The part of a boat or ship that is in the rear

STERN LINE - A line or rope, used for docking that extends from the stern

STOW - To arrange or place items where they belong

TILLER - A lever that is used for steering a boat's rudder

WAKE - Waves, path, and the tracks left when a boat passes over water

WATERLINE - The line on the hull of a boat used to determine the depth a boat sinks

WAY - The movement of the boat as it passes over water: may be leeway, headway, or sternway

WINDWARD - Of the side that is exposed to the wind

By: Kathryn Ali

Copyright [http://boating.actual-facts.com] 2007

Kathryn Ali is the Owner and Author of [http://www.boating.actual-facts.com]

Posted By: Stowaway Marine http://stowawaymarine.net

Tips to Maintain your Boat

Tips to Maintain your Boat

Buying a boat is a huge investment and to make sure you secure this investment, routine maintenance is a must. Maintaining your boat will preserve its condition and make sure it always performs optimally. You’ll also avoid some common boat repairs which are quite costly.

First, you’ll need to look out for some signs that your boat could be experiencing some underlying issues. No one knows your boat better than you. If you notice rust stains, don’t just ignore it assuming that it’s normal. Rust stains can occur on areas such as the hull and may indicate a bigger problem with your boat.

Sometimes the components beneath the boat such as bolts could be exposed to water/leaking causing the area around it to form rust stains. This is an issue that can cause the boat to sink if ignored for an extended period. The bolts need to be caulked immediately in order to stop the leaking and rust from forming around that area.

Additionally, you need to inspect the boat trailer for any signs of wear and tear. If the worn-out parts are not replaced immediately, the boat can be very hard to retrieve. Sometimes the worn out areas may damage the hull so they need to be replaced immediately.

The boat’s propeller also needs to be in the right state. If dirt is left to accumulate on the propeller shaft, it could risk complete damage. This is an area that is often exposed to marine life which may cause a lot of damage and even hinder the performance of your boat. Have it cleaned immediately to make sure the propeller performs optimally always.

When the boat is not in use, like during the winter, it’s important to store it properly. Poor storage may cause mold formation and reduce the service life of your boat. Before storing the boat make sure you review its condition and ascertain that it is in the right state. Do not store the boat with things like exterior cushions and covers during off-season. Remove these items and make sure you don’t cover the boat in such a way that it can’t get proper ventilation.

Lack of proper maintenance often leads to a lot of disappointments. Sometimes the boat may fail at a time when you least expect it and you’ll have to spend a lot of money on the repairs. You can have an expert inspect your boat say four times in a year or so. If you notice a drop in performance, it would also be best to call in an expert to provide the right assessment. Doing this will save you a lot of money in the long run.

Also consider hiring a marine surveyor to come and inspect your boat and make sure it’s in the right state. Sometimes self-inspection may not allow you to see significant problems with your boat and seek the necessary help. Remember that your safety and enjoyment is at stake so you must take all these maintenance requirements seriously. 

Posted By: Stowaway Marine http://stowawaymarine.net

A Basic Guide To Buying Used Boats

We all have that fear of buying a used item. What if the owner wasn't transparent about its condition? Will it be a worthwhile investment? Many times we buy used items because we want to cut back on costs and still get a something reliable. The same applies to buying used boats. A used boat can still fulfill your needs. Once you made a decision to buy a boat that someone else has owned before, here are some important things to consider.

First, know where to find a variety of used boats for sale. Used boats are being advertised everywhere these days. From magazines to bulletin boards and popular websites, you'll come across many people offering boats for sale. Look for a reliable marketplace where you can easily find quality used boats for sale and compare their prices. You can also shop for used boats both online and offline and compare the prices offered.

Other than looking at the price of a used boat, knowing the materials it's made of together with its current performance is very important. Fiberglass is considered one of the best materials for making boats. The performance of the boat will depend on the state of the engine. Engines that have been used a little over a year can still perform optimally especially if the boat has been well taken care of.

Secondly, know the seller before making any commitments. You'd rather buy a used boat from a company than a stranger you just found online. The good thing about companies that specialize in selling used boats is that they normally perform background checks to ensure customers are getting value for their money.

Find a reputable dealer who will help you narrow down your list of options and select a used boat that suits your taste and budget. Instead of having to visit one buyer at a time, a dealer will present you with several options which you can check out and compare. It's easy to decide on what you like and avoid poor quality used boats by choosing the right options.

Decide on the length of the boat that's best for you. Look for a dealer who will be transparent with you and explain all the issues with the boat before you make a purchase. In most cases, used boats are not set at a fixed price so you can negotiate and get a better deal. Your boat dealer will help you in negotiations and make sure you find the perfect match.

You need to perform some visual inspections which can help you tell if the boat is in a good state. For instance, check the prop area for any signs of damage. If the boat has significant signs of wearing, cracks or even a leak, then you may want to reconsider. Check the interior of the boat for musty odors. Some boats may be made using a combination of wood and fiber glass. Wood is prone to rotting so check whether there are any signs of potential problems.

Stow Away Marine & More, Inc., is conveniently located in Wakulla County (approximately 20 miles from downtown Tallahassee) on Coastal Hwy 98 between Woodville and Crawfordville Hwy's.http://stowawaymarine.net