Summer Is Almost Here - Are You Prepared?
Preparing Your Boat for the Summer
In order to assure a safe and pleasurable Summer season, be sure to go through the checklist below and notate any discrepancies that may require attention.
~Pre-Season Checklist~
GENERAL:
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Perform a general cleaning of hull, deck and topsides using a mild detergent
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Make sure drains and scuppers are clear
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Put on a good coat of wax
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Clean and polish metal with a good metal polish
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Clean teak and oil
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Clean windows and hatches
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Clean canvas, bimini and dodger
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Clean interior including bilges
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Check spare parts and tools and replace as necessary
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Make sure registration is current and onboard
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Check and replace wiper blades if necessary
HULL:
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Check for hull abrasions, scratches, gouges, etc. and repair
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Check and replace zincs
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Check for blisters and refinish is necessary
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Check rub rails
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Check swim platform and/or ladder
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Inspect and test trim tabs
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Check shaft, cutlass bearing, strut and prop
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Check rudder and fittings
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Touch up or replace anti-fouling paint
DECK, FITTINGS, SAFETY EQUIPMENT:
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Check stanchion, pulpits and lifelines for integrity
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Check ground tackle, lines, fenders, etc.
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Check chainplates and cleats
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Check hull/deck joint
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Check deck, windows, and port lights for leaks
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Inspect anchor windlass and lubricate
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Clean and grease winches
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Check and lubricate blocks, pad eyes, etc.
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Check dinghy, and life rafts
BELOW DECKS:
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Check, test and lubricate seacocks
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Check condition of hoses and clamps
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Make sure below waterline hoses are double clamped
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Check bilges pumps for automatic and manual operation
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Check for oil in bilges
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Check limber holes and make sure they are clear of debris
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM AND COMPONENTS:
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Check battery water level
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Check/recharge batteries
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Check terminals for corrosion, clean and lubricate
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Check bonding system
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Inspect all wiring for wear and chafe
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Test all gauges for operability
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Check shore power and charger
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Check for spare fuses
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Check all lighting fixtures (including navigation lights) and make sure you have spare bulbs
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Check all electronics for proper operation
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Inspect antennas
REQUIRED AND RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT:
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Sound signaling device
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Check distress signals and expiration date
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Check Pfds
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Inspect life rings and cushions
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Check fire extinguishers and recharge if necessary
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Check and adjust compass
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Check navigation lights
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Check charts and replace as necessary
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Check radar reflector
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Check and replace first aid supplies
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Check bailer and hand pump
INBOARD ENGINE(S):
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Change oil & filters – have spare onboard
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Check and change fuel filters – have spares onboard
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Check and change engine zincs
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Check cooling system change coolant as necessary – have extra coolant onboard
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Record engine maintenance log, especially date & hours of last oil changes
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Check belts for tension
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Check transmission fluid
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Check and clean backfire flame arrestor
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Check impeller
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Check and clean water strainer
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Check bilge blower
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Lubricate stuffing boxes, shaft and rudder logs
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Empty water separator filters
OUTBOARD MOTOR:
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Replace spark plugs
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Check plug wires for wear
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Check prop for nicks and bends
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Change/fill gear lube
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Inspect fuel lines, primer bulb and tank for leaks
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Lubricate and spray moveable parts
TRAILER:
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Check for current registration
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Check rollers and pads
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Check and lubricate wheel bearings
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Clean and lubricate winch
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Lubricate tongue jack and wheel
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Test lights and electrical connections
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Check tire pressure and condition
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Check brakes (if equipped)
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Check safety chains
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Check tongue lock