Boat & RV Accessories can help you get your boat ready for spring, so that you can enjoy another wonderful season on the water.
As winter fades into memory, boat owners start watching the weather, eagerly awaiting the time when they can head back out on another adventure. Whether their boat is stored at their home or in storage somewhere, they get stoked for the day when they can load up the trailer and head out again.
Before heading out, it is important to check all the systems and other aspects of your watercraft for safety. Doing so now, during a spring of growing excitement, will give you peace of mind and confidence when it is time for your next adventure.
Basics
The spring is a perfect time to knock basics out of the way, from ensuring proper registration to basic hull cleaning with a marine-safe cleaner. This is also the time for applying a fresh coat of wax to the hull, as well as any polish to metal parts. And give your safety equipment a once-over to make sure it is available and working.
Charged up
Spring is a good time to inspect your boat's electrical systems, as well. The biggest thing to check, of course, is the battery - check the terminals for corrosion, and the water level.
Next up is the wiring - check for fraying or other signs of wear, and make sure they are attached securely. Give your gauges a run through, and test your shore power system so that you can tell if your charger is working.
Got spare fuses and light bulbs handy? Spring is a good time to restock. And while you're at it, check the status of any other devices you have installed, such as a weather radio or fish finder. You might also consider using a corrosion inhibitor on your wiring.
Mull your hull
You can never over-inspect the hull of your boat. Check it for stress cracks or blistering. While a random blister isn't much of a problem, numerous blisters should concern you as much as stress cracks. In the name of hull integrity, get a pro to evaluate them.
Check all the components around the hull, as well. Does the rudder or fittings have any rust, bearing debris or excessive play? Are your rub rails in good shape? How are your swim platforms, ladders or test trim tabs?
Know your below
You need to know what's going on in the lower parts of your boat, as well. Seacocks should be inspected and lubricated. Hoses and clamps should be secure. Bilge pumps need to be operational, and your bilge should be free of oil - especially if you cleared it when putting your boat away for the winter, because if you see some now, that's a surefire sign of a leak.
Motors a must
Whether you have inboards or outboards, now is the time to make sure they are in good working order. It's not a bad idea to change the oil now, as well as check the fuel filter, belts, etc.
Trailing off
While you are checking the boat, remember to give your trailer a once-over, as well. Check the rollers, straps, chains and winch, and ensure all the lights such as brake lights and turn signals are working.