Spring Boat Inspection Checklist

If your boat has been in drydock all winter it will be great to get reacquainted before the spring season. Before its maiden voyage of the season, Wholesale Marine offers these tips to make certain the 2016 boating season is the best yet.

Spring Boat Inspection for Boat Owners:

• Once shrinkwrap has been removed, take a quick walk around your boat trailer and check for anything you might have missed in the fall. For outboard and sterndrive craft, check the propellers to make certain that these have not been bent or damaged or become corroded while in storage. The rudderstock is another important component to inspect to ensure it is true.Reinstall and fully-charge batteries. Top off with distilled water. Clean electrical connections and coat terminals with waterproof grease or spray.

• Next, inspect the anodes on the outdrive, shaft and trimtabs. Make a note to replace any that show signs of wear. Wholesale Marine carries all these components at competitive prices and most orders ship the same day.
• Check running lights, antenna connections, port lights, deck hatches and fittings, and through-hull openings. Look for evidence of corrosion, leaking seals and repair as needed.
• OUTBOARD/STERNBOARD ENGINES: while inspecting your outboard or sterndrives, check the bellows for cracked or torn folds. Check hydraulic trim fluid. If this was overlooked last fall, change it now. If the oil in the lower unit is milky, water has compromised it. Check seals and replace any that are cracked. Finally, change the oil. 
• INBOARD ENGINES: for boats with inboard engines, check that gas line are flexible and US Coast Guard approved. It is printed on each and if not, replace with lines that read, USCG Approved, J1527. Inboard fuel lines should be flexible and the connections free from a gasoline odor. Replace any that have cracked or have bulges.

  Cooling hoses should be tightly clamped for a snug fit. Be sure to replace any clamps that have corrosion. If you did not change the engine oil, fuel filter and air filters in the fall, do so now and check the coolant levels. Check belt tension, replace if worn.

Even if you do not perform your boats maintenance, it is good to know what to look for. This spring be sure to make a quick boat inspection before heading to the ramp at the marina. Wholesale Marine has everything boating enthusiasts need to keep their crafts ship shape. Call us with your questions, well be glad to assist! Were here Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM until 6:00 PM at (877) 388-2628.