The boating season has started and are you sure that you have thought of everything? De-winterizing your boat is essential. Our checklist helps you to find out, whether you might have forgotten anything.
We recommend to take a closer look at the engine, cooling system, battery, distributor, fuel system and belts. You often have to replace items.
Engine
After a long break, the engine needs an oil change. Moreover you should change the oil filter and add the correct oil additive in order to prevent any corrosion.
Cooling System
Are there any holes or cracks and is the strainer emptied? If the cooling system looks fine, you should refill the system. Boat owners with outboard engines using an impeller cooling system should also check, whether the rubber impeller is not cracked.
Battery
Some boat owners need to top off any fluids with distilled water. A battery tester is recommended in order to check the amps and volts. The battery has to be replaced if it is not able to hold a charge.
Distributor
Unfortunately, during winter many distributors corrode. Therefore, you should clean the distributor.
Fuel System
Drain the gas from the fuel tank in case you did not add an additive in the gas to prevent fuel separation and water contamination. Check the fuel line for any cracks which are often caused by cool tempereatures. You need to replace the fuel filter from last season. You should not save money on high-quality non-ethanol containing additive. It is essential for preventing damage from E10 gas.
Belts
Belts often have to be replaced for the start of the season. Simply press down on them to check if you have to change the belts. If the "give" is isignificant, you will not need to replace the belt. Do not forget to look near pulleys for soot in order to determine, whether you should replace your belt or not.
Here is a guide on how to launch your boat:
Follow us for all the latest news and boating advice on Facebook and Twitter:
