Whether you are a fisherman, water-skier or just a boating aficionado, boat maintenance is vital. Every time we use boats, we subject them to the wear and tear that comes with a harsh marine environment. Salt water is the worst enemy of almost all metals, which means we have to be vigilant when it comes to maintenance. If you leave no stone unturned for your boat’s maintenance, then it will last you for many years to come. Not only this, but it will also offer you better reliability and save you costly replacements.
Make sure your logbook services are up to date
A boat owner’s biggest mistake is to overlook routine servicing. Just because your boat is running smoothly, that does not mean there aren’t underlying issues. Some mechanical problems occur gradually and give you plenty of warning as they worsen. Others deteriorate in silence and culminate in a sudden breakdown. Breaking down on the water is not just inconvenient. It is also a safety issue. That is why it is essential that you take your boat in to get it serviced religiously. Even small things like perished impellers are enough to overheat your engine with catastrophic consequences.
Most preventative maintenance can be done at home
Getting routine services is not the only form of important boat maintenance. In fact, the most important aspects of boat maintenance occur as soon as you get off the water and when you get home. Taking the time to care for your boat both before and after you use it is invaluable. Preparing your boat while it’s still in the shed will ensure that you have a trouble free day on the water. Likewise, taking good care of your boat after each trip will make sure it’s in good condition next time.
Wash your boat after every use
All boaties would know that you must wash your boat down after every use. Spending 15 minutes with a good hose and some soapy water will do wonders for your boat’s longevity and condition. Getting rid of salty water ensures that your boat does not rust away at a rapid rate. Despite the fact that boats are designed to be rustproof, your boat still has some vulnerable components. Getting all the salt off as soon as possible with prevent these components from rusting at a rapid rate. This is especially important when it comes to trailers, which are often made from steel.
Keep all components greased well
Preparation is a very important aspect of boat maintenance. Keeping all of the moving components greased up and protected from salt water is vital. Marine grease is designed to protect your engine from corrosion and lubricate certain moving parts. It is an extremely durable form of grease, although it does disintegrate over time. If you are not sure where to apply the grease, simply ask your local boat mechanic to do so when you take your boat in for a service.
Take care of the fibreglass or aluminium of your boat
Fibreglass and aluminium boats are susceptible to different types of damage. Fibreglass has a tough coating over it that can crack if struck by sinkers or hard objects. If this coat cracks, then you must ensure that it is fixed relatively promptly. Alternatively, aluminium is susceptible to corrosion when it comes into contact with lead. This causes serious issues when you drop lead sinkers in an aluminium boat. If they go unnoticed, the lead and aluminium can react to such a degree that a hole forms in your boat. Always check for sinkers in the alloy parts of your boat and ensure they are removed.
For more useful boat maintenance tips, contact Holt Marine today on (07) 3353 1928.