THE LONG DAYS OF SUMMER

ARE WINDING DOWN

CLEAN • INSPECT • TEST • RESTOCK

Take care of the boat that took care of your summer.

Summer is winding down. Days are getting shorter, nights are getting cooler, and Labor Day is around the corner. While there is still plenty of boating season left, now is a good time to see what a busy summer of sun, salt, spray, passengers and long days on the water may have left behind.

Address small problems now, confirm that safety equipment is ready, and create a clear list for end-of-season service or next spring.

Clean - Remove What the Season Left Behind

Cleaning is more than cosmetic. Salt, dirt, moisture and organic debris can contribute to corrosion, odors, mildew and deterioration. A clean bilge also makes leaks and fluid contamination easier to spot.

Wash the hull, deck, nonskid surfaces, rails, hardware and windshield with marine-appropriate products.
Thoroughly rinse boats used in salt water with fresh water.
Clean and completely dry the bilge, storage compartments, canvas, carpeting, cushions and upholstery.
Remove damp towels, food, drinks, trash and anything that could leak, freeze, attract pests or create odors.

Inspect - Look Closely Before Small Issues Become Big Ones

A deliberate visual inspection can reveal damage or wear that was easy to miss during the busiest part of the season.

Examine the hull and gelcoat for cracks, blisters, gouges, chalking or damaged coatings.
Check the propeller for damage and for fishing line around the shaft.
Inspect dock lines, fenders, cleats, ladders, rails, canvas seams, snaps, zippers, hoses, belts, fuel lines, wiring and battery connections.
Look for mildew, torn upholstery, loose fasteners, corrosion, leaks and unusual wear.

Test - Confirm That Essential Systems Still Work

Shorter days make dependable lighting and communications especially important. Test equipment while there is still time to repair or replace it before the next outing.

Test the automatic and manual operation of every bilge pump, and clean debris from the pump and strainer.
Test navigation and anchor lights, the horn, VHF radio, GPS, alarms, blower, gauges, trim system, steering and engine cut-off switch where equipped.
Load-test the battery and inspect its terminals and cables for corrosion, looseness or damage.
Check life jackets, fire extinguishers, visual distress signals, flashlights, throwable flotation devices, first-aid supplies and other emergency equipment.

Restock or Replace - Prepare Now For Next Season

Do not wait until the first warm weekend next spring to discover that essential supplies are expired, missing or damaged.

Replace expired flares, medications, first-aid supplies, fire extinguishers, batteries and damaged life jackets as appropriate.
Restock spare fuses, bulbs, drain plugs, fuel filters, manufacturer-approved fluids, dock lines, emergency repair supplies, absorbent pads and basic tools.
Make a written spring replacement list and keep it with the boat’s maintenance records.

Give The Engine And Fuel System Proper Attention

Review engine hours and follow the maintenance schedule in the owner’s manual. Many marine engines call for basic service every 100 operating hours or annually, but the manufacturer instructions for the specific engine always take priority.

Check engine oil, coolant, power-steering fluid, trim fluid, gear lubricant, filters and spark plugs as applicable.
Inspect fuel lines and clamps for cracks, looseness, leaks, corrosion or signs of water contamination.
If fuel will remain unused, follow the engine manufacturer’s instructions for stabilizer, tank level and storage.
Schedule professional service for fuel leaks, damaged wiring, steering problems, contaminated gear lubricant or work outside your experience.

Plan For Changing Late-Season Conditions

Later-season boating can mean earlier sunsets, rapidly changing weather and cooler water. Check the forecast, file a float plan, carry warm and dry clothing, and wear a properly fitted life jacket. The National Weather Service cautions that sudden immersion can trigger gasping and rapid breathing even when the water does not feel extremely cold.

Take Care of the Boat That Took Care of Your Summer

Boat Fix owners can review battery condition, alerts, trip history, geofences and weather information at the boat’s location – and reach a live person through the 24/7 mechanical helpline when assistance is needed.

Boat Fix | www.boatfix.com | 908-BOATFIX