Used Boat Maintenance Guide
Buying a used boat is an excellent way to get all the amenities you crave in a vessel but at a much lower price tag. However, pre-owned models have already been used, which means extra wear and tear on your craft. This translates to needing more attention in terms of regular maintenance than the new counterparts. Learning how to enjoy and complete basic maintenance on your used boat is an important part of ownership, which is why we’ve crafted this brief guide to help you get started.
Consult Your Manual
Before performing any maintenance tasks, you’ll want to review the owner’s manual of your boat. We can give you lots of general tips that should apply to most crafts, but the only place you’re going to find specific information on your model is in the manual. If you don’t have your manual, or can’t find it, visit the manufacturer’s website for a downloadable copy.
Preventative Upkeep
Whether you’re headed for a cruise on the lake or planning to spend a sunny afternoon on the water, every trip you take on your boat should begin with an inspection. Not only is this a relatively quick and simple process, but it also makes sure that you’ll have a safe, smooth experience. You should always take the time to look over your boat and confirm that everything is functioning correctly.
Remember to keep up with regular maintenance tasks like cleaning, oil changes, examining your battery, and inspecting the hull and all controls. This will all go a long way towards ensuring that your boat is in peak condition for your next adventure. Don’t use a boat that might let you down. If you happen to come across an issue, it’s important to address it before you hit the water.
Engine Care
The engine of your boat is key to its proper functioning, so keeping track of how it performs is essential. Make sure the battery is in solid condition and is holding a charge. Run it before you
put your craft in the water to make sure that it powers up your lights and signals.
You’ll also want to check the fluid levels in your engine and replace the oil if it’s sludgy and opaque. Check to ensure there are no leaks around gasket heads. If you’ve left your used boat sitting for a while, you’ll want to drain the fuel in the tank and replace it with fresh fuel that has no more than 10% ethanol content, as engines aren’t meant to run on alcohol fuels.
We hope that this guide has been useful. If you need any maintenance help, bring your used boat to the experts at The Harbor (Boat & Yacht Sales) in Branson, MO. We welcome all our patrons visiting us from Springfield and Kansas City.