Boat Preparation Checklist

(Spring)

BEFORE YOU LAUNCH:

Ø Inspect and lubricate seacocks. Hoses and hose clamps should be inspected and replaced as necessary.

Ø Replace deteriorated zincs.

Ø Inspect prop(s) for dings, pitting and distortion. Make sure cotter pins are secure. Grip the prop and try moving the shaft - if it’s loose, the cutlass bearing may need to be replaced.

Ø Check to make sure the rudderstock hasn’t been bent.

Ø Inspect the hull for blisters, distortions and stress cracks.

Ø Make sure your engine intake sea strainer is free of corrosion and properly secured.

Ø Check the engine shaft and rudder stuffing boxes for looseness. After the boat is launched, be sure to check these as well as through-hulls for leaks.

Ø Use a hose to check for deck leaks at ports and hatches. Renew caulk or gaskets as necessary.

OUTDRIVES and OUTBOARD ENGINES:

Ø Inspect rubber out drive bellows for cracked, dried and/or deteriorated spots (look especially in the folds), and replace if suspect.

Ø Check power steering and power trim oil levels. Replace worn-out zincs.

Ø Inspect outer jacket of control cables. Cracks or swelling indicate corrosion and mean that the cable has to be replaced.

ENGINES AND FUEL SYSTEMS:

Ø Inspect fuel lines, including fill and vent hoses, for softness, brittleness or cracking. Check all joints for leaks and make sure all lines are well supported with non-combustible clips or straps with smooth edges.

Ø Inspect fuel tanks, fuel pumps and filters for leaks. Clamps should be snug and free of rust. Clean fuel filters.

Ø Inspect cooling hoses and fittings for stiffness, rot, leaks and/or cracking. Make sure they fit snugly and are double-clamped.

Ø Every few years, remove and inspect exhaust manifold for corrosion.

Ø Clean and tighten electrical connections, especially both ends of battery cables. Wire-brush battery terminals and fill cells with distilled water.

Ø Inspect bilge blower hose for leaks.

SAILBOAT RIGGING:

Ø Inspect fittings for cracks and rust. Inspect wire halyards and running backstays for “fishhooks” and rust.

Ø Remove tape on turnbuckles and lubricate threads, preferably with Teflon. Replace old tape with fresh tape.

Ø Re-caulk through-deck chainplates as necessary (generally, once a decade).

TRAILERS:

Ø Inspect tire treads and sidewalls for cracks or lack of tread and replace as necessary. Check air pressure. Don’t forget the spare!

Ø Inspect bearings and repack as necessary.

Ø Test tail and back-up lights. Test winch to make sure it’s working properly.

Ø Inspect trailer frame for rust. Sand and paint to prevent further deterioration.

MISCELLANEOUS:

Ø Check expiration dates on flares and fire extinguishers.

Ø Check stove and remote tanks for loose fittings and leaking hoses.

Ø Inspect bilge pump and float switch to make sure it’s working properly.

Ø Inspect dock and anchor lines for chafing.

Ø Update or replace old charts, waterway guides.

Ø Check shore power cable connections for burns, which indicates the cable needs to be replaced.

Ø Make sure your boating license and/or registration is up to date. Don’t forget your trailer tags.

Ø Review your boat insurance policy and update coverage if needed. Be sure you have fuel spill insurance coverage.

Ø Make sure you have a properly sized and wearable life jacket in good condition for each passenger, including kids and pets.