You've probably heard the old saw that the word boat stands for "break out another thousand." As with most sayings, there's a bit of truth in this hoary adage. Fortunately, by being proactive with your boat, you can tackle small problems before they get bigger and avoid a king-sized dent in your wallet. After all, a good boat represents a sizable investment for most folks.
Bakes Marine is happy to share with you some tips for dealing with common boat issues and maintenance. In fact, boat problems and maintenance are closely related. The more maintenance you do, the fewer problems you and your boat will likely encounter.
Boat Maintenance 101
Let's start with engine maintenance. Just as with your car and truck, regularly changing the motor oil in your boat will help extend the engine's life. Typically boat owners change the oil and oil filter annually or every 100 hours, whichever comes first. But check your owner's manual and don't be afraid to change the oil more often. It will be much cheaper than repairing or replacing the engine.
When you pop the hatch on your motor, visually inspect the engine closely. Pay special attention to parts that degrade over time, like hoses and belts. If your boat is taking on more water than normal, the bilge pump hose could be the problem.
Non-Starters and Rough Running
Boat won't start? You need to stay on top of battery issues to make sure your battery is in good condition and properly charged. The problem might also lie with boat parts like the starter. If you are handy, you can fix most starting issues yourself. If not, make sure to have a good mechanic give your boat a thorough going-over.
If your boat runs rough, the problem could be with the fuel supply, the spark plugs or a variety of other engine parts. Again, if you're mechanically inclined, you can tackle many of these problems yourself.
If your boat is shuddering under way, the problem may lie with your propeller. It's a good idea to regularly inspect your prop to make sure it has no dings or dents and to remove any weeds or other crud from it. If your screw is damaged, you can replace it with a new brass or stainless steel propeller. You'll discover lots of options that could even boost your boat's performance, such as a new boat propeller pitch angle.
At best, a boat steering issue can be a hassle. In the high-speed boating world of watersports, it can be downright dangerous. Fortunately, plenty of steering replacement parts are available for you if you're up to the job of doing it yourself. If not, hire a qualified technician to make the repair as soon as possible.
Keeping your boat clean in and out will keep it looking good and will prolong its life. If you trailer your boat, cleaning it will also help prevent the spread of invasive species in other waterways. Regularly clean fiberglass boats and wax the gel coat to protect it from sun, water and the elements. Don't forget your boat's interior either. Plenty of boat cleaning products are available to protect upholstery and carpets. If you spot any mildew or mold during your cleaning chores, make sure to eradicate it immediately before it gets out of hand.