Well they say that April showers bring May flowers….they
also bring out boaters! For boaters April means that the big splash is just around
the corner. As much as we are all excitied to get the boat back in the water
there are a few things that you should think about doing before the season is
in full swing to help avoid any undue service appointments or fines.
When you are thinking about summarizing your boat use the
following check sheet to ensure your boat is in tip top shape for the boating
season.
Make sure that you have a proper insurance coverage.
Check over canvas
o Ensure
there are no holes
o Clean
tops & windows – do not use an abrasive cleaner on boat top windows as
harsh cleaners will scratch and mark these items.
o Check
waterproofing. Re-waterproof if necessary
o Check
zippers – lubricate if necessary
·
Clean exterior & interior
o Wipe
down upholstery
o Vaccuum
carpet
o Wax
exterior (unless this was done in the fall or over the winter then a wipe down
will suffice)
·
Check the condition of the battery
o Make
sure battery terminals are tight
o If
you battery has wingnuts on it should be replaced with locknuts
·
Check the oil level
o Oil
changes and lower unit oil changes should have been done in the fall…however if
they weren’t you should have this done
o When
running for the first time lift the engine compartment lid and check to ensure
there are no fluid leaks.
·
Check that the prop nut is tight
·
Check safety equipment is fully operational and
in good condition.
o Flares
& Fire extinguishers have an expiration date. Check to make sure they have
not expired
o Change
batteries in watertight flashlights
o Check
that all lines are in good working order
o Ensure
lifejackets/PFD’s are free of rips and tears.
o Make
sure your PCOC card is on board
·
Make sure the drain plug is secure
No comments:
Post a Comment