Things To Check Before You Get Out On The Water With Your Boat This Season

Things To Check Before You Get Out On The Water With Your Boat This Season

May 14, 2020 Off By Helen Olsson

The excitement is building as one of the best times of year gets closer and closer. That’s right! Boating season is almost upon us and it’s time to get your boat ready to get out on the water. Warmer days are calling and boaters know now is the time to prep their craft for the season. 

Here are a few things to think about while you’re getting everything ready for your favourite season.

Engine and Fuel System

There are a number of things that you are going to want to check before you get out on the water. The last thing you want is an engine or other system failure while you’re out enjoying a beautiful day with your friends or family. Check your seals, grease that prop shaft and it’s always a good idea to replace the cotter pin. Don’t be a victim of a corroded battery cable or terminal, make sure to check and wire brush the cable and terminal or replace it if necessary. Do a thorough check of your fuel system, especially on older boats. You also want to check for any damage related to rodents or other pests. They love to chew on things and can find your boat as an excellent winter home. Finally, check your engine oil, then start up your boat and run it for at least ten minutes at normal speed. Then check your oil again – if the colour is milky, it’s time to drain that oil and replace as it probably has water in it.

Check Your Vessel

Before you put your boat in the water this season, you’ll also want to check the integrity of your vessel. Inspect each thru-hull fittings both inside and outside of your boat. Make sure that the shut-off valves work and are well-lubricated where necessary. Hoses must also be double clamped with no corrosion. Fire up your bilge pumps and check your switches as well as additional pumps. Take a good look at your anchor and chain for rust issues. If your hull has any chips, dings or other damage, repair where necessary. In the event that you need to replace your Mercury outboard motor, take a look at Mercury outboard dealers. They should have a proper replacement on hand.

Safety Equipment

Before you get out on the lake or ocean, you’ll need to make sure all of your safety equipment is thoroughly inspected. The last thing you want is a serious situation on the water and you find that your flares are dead or your fire extinguisher isn’t charged.

Enjoy the Season

Boat, Ocean, Alone, Single, Floating, Clear Water, Sea


Image Source: Pixabay

When you’re getting your boat ready, always look into your boat owner manual and outboard manual for any additional information. But remember, it’s not all work and no play. Once you have completed your general inspection and your boat is in the water, soak up the joy of the season with friends or family. The water is calling and you will soon be there to answer it in your Mercury outboard boat!