BOAT MAINTENANCE
Keeping your boat in top condition will help eliminate mechanical problems which will in turn help prevent fires.
Nothing is more frustrating than having an engine problem at the dock or on the water. Good mechanical maintenance is the key to minimizing engine problems.
A checklist is an excellent way to ensure you have inspected your boat, engine and trailer. Maintain all components regularly and inspect critical items frequently. Boaters are advised to keep the motor tuned, change the oil, and perform regular maintenance. If mechanical components fail, they must be replaced with marine grade components - never use automotive parts to replace marine engine parts.
A comprehensive inspection of the engine, associated electrical system, and fuel system includes checking the following items on a regular basis:
- Through Hull Fittings – check the area around the fitting to ensure no water is leaking through the fitting. Inspect the packing around the fitting looking for cracks or splits.
- Motor – inspect the area of the motor most likely to fail, which includes:
- Belts - a properly adjusted belt should twist no more than ½ a turn, look for cracks, abnormal wear. Replace at least every 500 engine hours or 3 years, whichever comes first.
- Hoses - squeeze to check if they are brittle or soft. Replace at least every 500 engine hours or 3 years, whichever comes first.
- Valve Covers – look for signs of leaking oil.
- Distributor Cap, Spark Plugs and Wires
- Carburetor – ensure backfire flame arrestor
- Water Pump (look for a greenish discharge)
- Alternator – check belt and inspect.
- Expansion tank – look for signs of leaking.
- Electrical System
- Alternator
- Battery – fully charged and in a proper storage container. Check cables often.
- Battery Selector Switch – inspect wiring.
- Bilge Pump – test frequently.
- Navigation Lights – turn on and inspect all lights.
- Engine Gauges (temperature, oil pressure, charging system, tachometer (engine RPMs)).
- Shore Tie Panel and Connections
- Fuel System
- Cap – securely fastened and of proper size.
- Tank – inspect monthly for signs of deterioration or leaks.
- Hoses – inspect for signs of wear or cracks.
- Pump – look for signs of leaks
- Ventilation Blower – check wiring and exhaust hoses.
- Natural Ventilation – inspect intake and exhaust hoses.
- Portable Fuel Tanks – insure they are secured and in good condition.
- Vacuum Residual Oil (VRO) – provides the proper amount of oil to the fuel for an outboard engine which eliminates the need to add oil to gasoline for 2-stroke engines. Check for signs of leaking.
CHECKLIST FOR THE HULL,
ENGINE, ELECTRONICS, AND TRAILER/VEHICLE
|
| |
RED = Inspect before
each outing |
BLUE = Inspect regularly |
| |
|
| 1. |
Hull and through-hull fittings.
|
| |
Look for signs
of structural weakness (stress cracks, gouges, chips, blisters,
loose rivets) |
| |
Loose caulking
or packing of through-hull fittings |
| |
Unusual
discoloring of the hull. |
| |
Unusual amount
of marine growth |
| |
Cleats and
tie-down points in good condition |
| |
|
| 2. |
Engine compartment. |
| |
Check all
hoses |
| |
Inspect belts |
| |
Look for signs
of leaking oil or water (Even a small amount of fluid loss could
mean major problems. Fix any leaks and replace any worn belts
immediately). |
| |
Check all
fluid levels - oil, power steering, expansion tank, etc. Fill to
manufactures specifications. |
| |
Ensure the
backfire flame arrestor is securely attached and clean |
| |
Inspect
ventilation hoses |
| |
|
| 3. |
Electrical equipment. |
| |
VHF-FM marine
radio |
| |
Raise and
lower the outdrive |
| |
Ventilation
blower |
| |
Bilge pump |
| |
Navigation
lights |
| |
Horn |
| |
Depth finder |
| |
Global
Positioning System (GPS) |
| |
Shore Power
connection |
| |
Anchor winch |
| |
Other
electrical equipment |
| |
|
| 4. |
Trailer |
| |
Tire pressure |
| |
Test all
lights (brake, turning, back-up) |
| |
Test brakes if
installed |
| |
Tie-down
straps |
| |
Winch cable,
strap or line |
| |
Chains |
| |
Trailer tongue
and hitch |
| |
Spare Tire,
jack and tools |
| |
Lock |
| |
Wheel bearings
well greased (should be visually inspected often) |
| |
Is license
plate current? |
| |
|
| 5. |
Vehicle hitch and lights |
| |
Correct size
trailer hitch ball |
| |
Trailer light
connection |
| |
Power winch
cable connection |
| |
|
| 6. |
Sailboats |
| |
Mast, boom,
other |
| |
Sails,
halyards, sheets, stay |
| |
|
|
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