Spring is in the air, which means summer is right around the corner. Are you and your boat ready? Whether you found a boat dealer over the winter and purchased the perfect boat for your summer fun, or your boat’s been in storage since you hauled it out of the lake at the end of last summer, it’s time to make sure it’s ready for the water.
Give It a Good Inspection
The first thing you want to do is give your boat a good once-over. Take the cover off and check it for any mold or mildew, and clean it if necessary. Then take a good look at the exterior of the boat. The best time to make sure everything is in good shape is while it is out of the water, so take the opportunity to determine if there was any damage over the winter.
De-Winterize the Engine and Other Systems
If you did all the winterizing things you were supposed to do before storing it away for the winter, the de-winterizing process should be a smooth one. You’ll want to empty all the fluids from the engine and put in fresh oil.
Now, depending on what type of boat you have, you’ll want to check the bilge circuit, pump, and the switch to make sure they are all working. Look at all the fluid levels and replace or fill any that are low. Now is also the best time to check the spark plugs and other engine components for issues that could put a wrench in your day out on the water.
Do You Have All Your Safety Equipment?
Go through the boat to make sure all the lifejackets are in perfect condition. Carefully inspect them for rips or tears, and make sure the buckles all work. If you have kids who ride on the boat, you might want to check to make sure they didn’t outgrow the life jacket they wore last summer. Look at the weight limit on the jackets to ensure they are within range, and get larger ones if needed.
While you’re doing a safety check, make sure the fire extinguisher still works. These sometimes have a habit of discharging.
Time for a Battery Check
Inspect the battery for any signs of problems, and make sure it is charged. A good, strong battery is key to starting the engine.
Give it A Good Cleaning – Make it Shine!
Washing your boat may not seem like a crucial step in the de-winterizing process, but its importance can’t be understated. Keeping your boat clean and inspecting every area while you clean will help prevent excessive wear and tear. Go over it with a marine-grade cleaner. Wipe down all the surfaces to help slow down or even stop potential erosion.
Did You Get a New Registration?
Before you head out on the water, check your state’s license and registration laws. You won’t be able to enjoy your water-ready boat if it’s not registered and if you don’t have the proper license to operate it.
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