There is no thrill like speeding across the open water on a powerboat. In order to ensure that the thrill lasts for years to come, proper powerboat maintenance is essential. Below, you will find several important tips that will help you get the most out of your powerboat. Maintaining your powerboat requires some work on your part but the payoff is so worth it.
Keeping It Clean
Fortunately, one of the most important aspects of maintaining your powerboat also happens to be the simplest: keeping your boat clean. As simple as this task sounds, it is one that many powerboat owners neglect. Neglecting this task can have serious consequences. For instance, many powerboats have a fiberglass coating that can turn chalky if not regularly rinsed and waxed. The boat’s upholstery can be a breeding ground for mold and mildew if not routinely washed. Worst of all, if the boat’s bilge is not regularly cleaned, it can quickly become clogged. While many of these items are simple DIY tasks, you can always take your boat to a powerboat service center if you need any additional help.
Check Your Hoses
Engine hoses are prone to cracking and this is why they need to be checked regularly. Hoses with cracks should be replaced immediately. Failure to replace a cracked hose can lead to all kinds of problems, including (in the worst cases) a sunken boat. Most engine hoses have a lifespan of around ten years. If your boat is nearing the ten-year mark, you need to be especially vigilant about checking the engine hoses. If a hose needs replaced, you can rest assured that it is an easy process: just go to a powerboat dealer near you.
Pay Attention to The Oil
A car will not run very long if the oil level gets too low or if the oil is not routinely changed. The same is true of a boat. Stay on top of checking your boat engine’s oil level, just as you would with your car. Consult your owner’s manual to find out the proper level, and add oil as needed. Where oil changes are concerned, we recommend changing the oil after every one hundred hours of boating, and changing the filter every three months. Take your boat to a powerboat maintenance center for these essential services.
When in Doubt, Get An Inspection
Another way to ensure that you and your family get the most enjoyment out of your powerboat is to have it regularly inspected. As with many of the other aspects of boat maintenance, a powerboat service provider can handle the inspection. In fact we recommend taking your boat to the professionals, as there are many things that an untrained eye can miss during the inspection process. You should get your boat inspected each year before taking it out for the season. If you notice any problems with the way your boat runs, take your boat in ASAP. The sooner a small problem is detected, the less likely it is to turn into a big problem.
For more information on the care and maintance of your powerboat click here.