Summer is almost here, which means that boating season is almost here.
There’s nothing better than taking your boat for a spin on a hot summer day. But before you set sale, there are some things you need to do to prepare your boat for the summer. The right preparation will help your boat run smoothly all summer long.
Read this boating school guide to discover how to prep your boat for the summer.
1. Get the Fuel System Ready
One of the most important things you need to do is prepare your fuel system for the summer. First, inspect the system for any leaks or damage.
You should also inspect the hoses, connect, and tank surface. If there are any small cracks or brittleness on the hose, have it replaced, as this damage compromises its structural integrity. Also, make sure that all nuts, bolts, and clamps are securely in place.
Make sure the ventilation, engine, and exhaust systems are in working order. Take time to thoroughly clean your carburetors as well.
2. Prepare the Cables and Belts
After you get the fuel system ready, it’s time to prepare the cables and belts. Cables and belts are prone to cracking and turning brittle during the winter season, so make sure to conduct a thorough inspection before you launch your boat.
Make sure the belts fit tightly around the pulleys, as this will help prevent any slipping. If you notice some black residue around the pulley, this is a sign that the belt is worn out and needs to be replaced. Also, check for signs of internal corrosion. If there’s swelling around the outer jacket of the throttle, that’s usually a sign that there’s internal corrosion.
3. Check the Electric System
It’s also very important that you check the electric system before launching your boat. It’s best to have the boat’s electric system inspected by a quality electrician, preferably someone who has experience working on boats.
You should also remove any corroded terminals and clean the cable ends and terminals using a wired brush. Also, check all of the electrical connections for corrosion. And, remember to charge your boat battery at the beginning of the season. You should have the battery tested to make sure it can hold a charge at full capacity.
4. Check Your Safety Gear
According to the American Boating Association, there were 613 deaths and 2559 boating injuries in 2019. Many of these boating incidents could have been prevented had people used the appropriate safety gear when boating.
Check your life jackets and make sure they’re in good condition, and make sure there’s enough for everyone on board. Also, make sure that you have the right-sized life jacket for each customer’s bodyweight. It’s also a good idea to have your boat inspected by a boating agency, such as the US Coast Guard, US Power Squadrons, or the USCG Auxiliary.
You should also plan to clean your boat before using it, as a messy boat can be a safety hazard. You can check out this guide to learn how to deep clean an aluminum boat.
Boating School: Time to Get your Boat Ready
Now that you’ve read this boating school guide, it’s time to get your boat ready for the summer. By completing the above tasks, you’ll reduce the number of boating issues throughout the summer.
For more boating news and information, check back in with our blog.
