Considering buying a boat? If so, congratulations! Boats provide lots of amazing opportunities for everyone.
Still, before buying a boat, it’s best to learn all the aspects of boat maintenance. After all, boats need a lot of work to maintain. Sometimes, some of these boat habits are detrimental to the boat in the long term.
What are some common mistakes with boat maintenance that you should avoid? Read on to learn more.
1. Neglecting the Engine
The engine is the heart of the boat, and it needs to get taken care of regularly. Neglecting the engine can cause significant problems that could be costly to repair.
To avoid these mistakes, boat owners should follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule. This includes regular oil changes, checking coolant levels, and replacing the air and fuel filters. It is also essential to pay attention to warning lights and take the boat for servicing if they come on.
2. Failing to Clean the Boat Properly
Keeping a boat clean is more than just for aesthetic purposes. Dirt and grime can cause damage to the boat’s surface and lead to corrosion.
Not cleaning your boat properly can also end up in you damaging its other parts. If you end up damaging your tiller arms due to a lack of cleaning and maintenance, you might need to replace them. The good news is that you can shop for tiller arms easily online nowadays.
To avoid this mistake, boat owners should use only products that are specifically designed for cleaning boats. They should also rinse the boat thoroughly with fresh water after each use and store it in a dry place to prevent moisture buildup.
3. Not Checking the Battery
A boat’s battery is critical, and it needs to get checked regularly. Failing to do so can cause the battery to fail, leaving the boat stranded in the water.
To avoid this mistake, boat owners should check the battery’s charge levels regularly. Also, they should clean the terminals with a wire brush and baking soda solution to remove any corrosion. It is also essential to disconnect the battery when the boat is not in use to prevent it from draining.
4. Ignoring the Trailer
Boat trailers are often overlooked when it comes to maintenance. But they are just as important as the boat itself. Neglecting the trailer can cause it to fail, leading to high boat maintenance costs or accidents on the road.
Boat owners should check the tire pressure, inspect the trailer rust, and grease the bearings at least once a year. It is also important to ensure that the trailer lights are working before hitting the road.
5. Using the Wrong Fuel
Using the wrong fuel can do a lot of damage to the engine of the boat. This can often lead to fixes that cost a lot.
To avoid making this mistake, boat owners should always check what type of fuel the boat’s maker recommends for the engine. They shouldn’t use old fuel either.
Adding a fuel stabilizer to the fuel tank is also a good idea. If you do this as part of your regular boat maintenance, the fuel won’t break down and hurt the engine.
Avoid Mistakes With Boat Maintenance
Don’t let boat maintenance woes keep you from enjoying a day on the lake. Learning about common mistakes with boat maintenance can help keep your boat running in tip-top shape.
Staying consistent with maintenance and addressing issues quickly can help ensure smooth sailing! Contact your local boat mechanic today if you need help.
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