Tips for Boat Owners When Doing Spring Boat Transport
These general maintenance tips for boat owners in preparation for spring boat transport will save you time and money in the long term! It is official. Spring has sprung and boating season is underway. Before you head out on the waters, you need to make sure your boat is ready to handle the adventures that are awaiting you.
Here are some things you need to do in addition to calling a dependable boat transport service.
- Do a general inspection that includes cleaning the hull, checking to see that scuppers and drains are clear, waxing the hull, cleaning and polishing the metal, cleaning any teak and oil it, cleaning all the windows and hatches, cleaning the dodger and canvas, clean the bimini, clean the entire interior including bilges, check spare parts and tools, check to see that your boat registration is current and onboard, check the wiper blades. You will need to do thorough inspections of the hull, deck, fittings, and safety equipment as well.
- The hull should be checked for gouges, abrasions, blisters, and scratches and then repaired as necessary. Check the zincs and replace them. Check the rub rails, swim platform and ladder. Inspect and test the trim tabs. Check the rudder and fittings, the shaft, cutlass bearing, strut and prop. Then touch up or replace antifouling paint as needed.
- Check the stanchion, lifelines, and pulpit for their integrity. Check fenders, ground tackle, lines, the hull and deck joint, chainplates and cleats. Check the port lights and windows for leaks. Inspect and lubricate the anchor windlass and clean then grease the winches. Check and lubricate eye pads, blocks, and so forth. Also, check the dinghy and life raft, if applicable.
- Below the deck, you should check the condition of the hoses and clamps and make sure the waterlines are double-clamped. Check, test and lubricate the seacocks, check for oil in bilges, and check bilges pumps for both automatic and manual operation. Make sure no debris is around the limber holes.
- Carefully check the electrical system by checking the bonding system, the battery water level, and the battery terminals for corrosion. Clean and lubricate the battery cables and check and recharge the batteries. Test all gauges and make sure they are working properly.
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