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Tips to Prepare Your Boat for Summer

Prepare Your Boat for Summer
Image by pasja1000 from Pixabay

Tips to Prepare Your Boat for Summer Boating

If you plan to spend your summer boating, you have to get your boat ready for the busy season. Proper mechanical servicing and maintenance can guarantee you a hassle-free time with family and friends. Here are a few tips to help you prepare your boat’s pre-summer checklist:

Prepare Your Boat for Summer
Image by pasja1000 from Pixabay

1. Change the oil

Changing your boat’s oil before summer boating is crucial. Check the level of the engine oil and ensure it is at the recommended level. If you hadn’t made the change before winter storage, this is the perfect time to do it. While you are at it, consider changing the outdrive oil too.

2. Refill the cooling system

Whether or not you filled your boat’s cooling system with antifreeze and water during winterization, you must drain and refill your cooling system.

Next, check if the hoses are in good condition. If they have leaks, wear, or cracks, get an expert to replace them.

3. Perform seacock servicing

It is a dangerous thing to go boating with beat-up seacocks. Make sure to check all of them and replace any broken fittings.

Wash the seacocks with clean water to dislodge any salt and inspect the seals for any signs of damage.

4. Check the battery

Boat batteries can last up to five years. Ensure yours doesn’t conk out sooner, fill it with distilled water occasionally, and ensure its charge level is at maximum. Periodic cleaning and greasing can also increase your battery’s lifespan.

Boating fun
Photo by Benjamin Klaver on Unsplash

5. Antifoul your boat

The purpose of antifouling is to curb scum buildup and the growth of marine organisms on your vessel’s hull. Excessive accumulation of algae and scum can take a toll on the boat’s performance and set you back more in the future.

The three common types of antifouling are:

  • Hard antifoul
  • Copper-based antifoul
  • Eroding antifoul

6. Service the winches

Winches will only work well if they are maintained and serviced regularly. Parts that are worn or have sustained any significant damage should be replaced immediately.

Many manufacturers recommend that winch servicing be done semi-annually or more regularly if the boat is in constant use.

7. Fit it with a boat top

Boat tops come in a spectrum of sizes, colors, and shapes. You can go for a simple sunshade such as Stryker T-Tops or invest in a fully-enclosed canvas, complete with doors and windows.

When selecting a boat top, factor in all the uses of the boat. If, for instance, you are going to use it for fishing as well, then a T-top would offer more convenience.

8. Inspect the electrical system

Even the smallest electrical equipment matters when it comes to your safety. Test your boat’s electrical system before you begin your summer boating season. Test out all knobs and switches on your boat to ensure they are working. 

Conclusion – Prepare Your Boat for Summer

While many owners will spend their time refining the aesthetics of their boats, it is wise to focus on the functionality. There is nothing wrong with giving your vessel a fresh coat of paint or even naming it, but there is no point doing all that for a boat whose engine is falling apart. The above tips will help you address your vessel’s most significant parts as you buckle up for the summer. But most importantly, get your boat seaworthy so you can make lasting memories on the water this summer. Enjoy the water!