“Spring Cleaning” Your Boat
As we get closer to Spring, many of us are getting ready to launch our boats for the season. It’s important to remember to take care of the basics prior to launch to help ensure that we have a safe, trouble-free, and fun season on the water.
The examples I list below are just some of the things that I do and personally feel are important. This is by no means an exhaustive list, and as always, I recommend following the manufacturer’s recommendations for your vessel.
Engine – Although I recommend changing your engine oil (4 strokes), fuel filters, and lower unit fluid in the fall, it’s not too late. Change them or have them changed now and start the season fresh.
Hull – Your hull needs to be thoroughly cleaned and waxed prior to the season. Even if your boat is new and shiny, this step will keep it looking this way for years to come.
Bottom – If you keep your boat on a lift, I recommend that you also clean and wax the bottom. If you keep your boat in the water you will need to address your bottom paint. Traditional bottom paint will need to be reapplied yearly (after prepping the bottom with a light sanding). If you use ablative paint, it may require touching up in areas, check with the manufacturer for specific recommendations.
Interior – If you didn’t do it in the fall, now is the time to empty and clean all the storage lockers. Remove all your lines and check for any wear or chafe (replace accordingly). It’s a nice touch to mix 1 cup of fabric softener with water in a 5-gallon bucket and rinse your lines, including your anchor line in it for several hours. This will keep them pliable for the season. Now is also a good time to clean and wax the cockpit of your boat. Beyond the fact that it will keep things looking shiny for the future, it will also help prevent staining from spills. Now is also the time to hook up your batteries, make sure they are fully charged, and turn on all your accessories lights, horn, wipers, electronics, etc. It’s much easier to fix any of these prior to launching. Don’t forget to look at your canvas, make sure there is no abnormal wear, and that all the snaps operate easily.
Miscellaneous – Make sure you have your insurance and registration renewed as well as any towing insurance. Make sure your tool kit, fire extinguishers, and floatation devices are up to code. And make sure your drain plug is with the boat before heading to the ramp or marina.
I hope you find this helpful, and as always don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or need additional information or help with any of these items.
Calm Seas and Fair Winds,
Captain Ed