Here’s some handy advice from our oracles at San Fransisco Boat Works to help you get ready for the coming season.
If the boat has been sitting for awhile, the first thing you want to do is to ensure your engine is running as it should.
We recommend servicing the engine, covering the following as a basic service:
- FIRSTLY – TURN THE ENGINE OVER BY HAND – You want to ensure it moves freely and with compression.
- Turning over with the starter motor will be more aggressive and could cause more wear if the oil hasn’t had a chance to circulate.
- Remove and replace all spark plugs – visually inspecting the old ones for anomalies.
- Remove and replace engine oil – ensuring you use the correct oil as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
- We recommend sending an oil sample away for analysis, to build up a trend of what’s going on inside your engine. This will give you an early indication of anything that might be going wrong, and will enable you to rectify it and avoid a costly repair.
- Change the oil filter
- Change the fuel filter
Above and beyond, the following is a list of other critical checks:
Drive Belt: Inspect the belt for cracking, chaffing and general wear and tear. Check the tension – most engines are ¼ turn, but check manufacturer guidelines. TIGHTER IS NOT ALWAYS BETTER. Don’t be tempted to over-tighten, as this could lead to bigger issues.
Raw water-cooling system: Check the condition of your hoses – look for cracking, and hoses touching in places they shouldn’t. Ensure clamps are tight (again – DO NOT OVER TIGHTEN). Check that the raw water strainer is clean.
Coolant system: Your engine may or may not have a coolant system. If it does, check that the header tank cap is secure and the header tank is full of coolant. Check the color of the coolant – there are several different colors, but they all should be clear and bright. CHECK THE COLOR IS THE CORRECT COLOR FOR ENGINE TYPE (e.g. Yanmar should not have green coolant). If the color is incorrect or not clear, have a mechanic check it over, as it could be an issue.
Check zinc anodes if fitted: If they are depleted by 50% or more, replace them.
It is recommended to take them out, tap them across a solid surface to remove any loose material – and gauge the remaining amount after this.
Clean the air filter or flame arrestor if fitted. Visually check and ensure cleanliness.
Steering cable grease: Apply grease to the steering cable and grease points as required.
Batteries:
- Check battery voltage with a multimeter – should read over 12 volts.
- Charge the battery to ensure it can hold a full charge.
- Check terminals for corrosion and clean as necessary – ensure you take the necessary precautions!
- Check terminals are tight by wiggling cables.
- Check all sides of the battery for bulging or cracking.
- Check battery is tied down and secure.
Cabling: Check the condition of electrical cables. Ensure security and no damage.
IF IN DOUBT, WE RECOMMEND CALLING IN A PROFESSIONAL FOR ANY ELECTRICAL ISSUES.
Transmission: Check transmission oil level. Replace and renew as per manufacturers’ recommendations.
Fuel check: WE HAVE ENCOUNTERED A LOT OF ISSUES DUE TO FUEL QUALITY.
Please see our blog post on fuel husbandry for further information.
Hull and prop(s): Check the prop(s). Clean and remove growth – excess growth may increase loud and reduce fuel efficiency.
Check for any pitting, cracks or distortions.
Clean hull with an environmentally friendly cleaning solution. Whilst doing so, check for any bulges, cracks, distortions or blisters.
If your boat is stored in the water, we recommend an ablative antifouling system. In our opinion, this is a much better coating than hard coat in this area.
Safety: Everything is fine until it is not!
USCG provides a free vessel safety check. They will provide a decal if passed or provide a written report of any issues. There aren’t any ramifications if you fail, just peace of mind on how to correct issues.
Ensure you have lifejackets to cover all the shapes and sizes of people you’ll have onboard, and that they are in good working condition.
Check all safety equipment is present and in working condition.
Check your fire extinguishers are obvious and serviced.
Speak to the experts: If in doubt – reach out. 415 626 2378. We’ll provide you with an answer, or help you find one.
Once this is all done, it’s time to get your boat out on the water. Sit back, take in the view and remind yourself why you purchased your vessel in the first place. There’s nothing better!
Fair winds and smooth sailing!
