Boating Tip: Spring checklist

With spring now upon us and the weather warming up,  the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard has said that it's now time to make sure you check your vessel and engine over before hitting the water again to avoid breakdowns, failures and accidents.

Vessel maintenance doesn't have to be a chore: get into a routine and maintain your boat to prevent breakdowns on the water.

Here is a handy checklist from our friends at Transport Safety Victoria outlining four major areas to check on your boat.

Motor
Manufacturers usually recommend a service by a specialised workshop at least once a year, even if the motor is hardly used. This ensures vital internal parts such as the water pump are checked. If your motor is used regularly, you should change your gearbox oil every three months.
>> Replace your pull cord if it is fraying
>> Check all wiring
>> Clean spark-plugs, check gaps and replace if required
>> Check compression
>> Lubricate all moving parts
>> Check and re-fill gear case oil
>> Clean cooling system passages
>> Check propeller and nut – sand or file any small cracks
>>Check and replace the sacrificial anode if required.

Fuel
>> Always replace old fuel - never go out with fuel which is more than six months old
>> Make sure you have enough fuel for the trip - 1/3 out, 1/3 back and 1/3 in reserve
>> Clean your fuel tank at least once a year with a suitable solvent and dispose of old fuel responsibly
>> Inspect the fuel tank for cracks or corrosion
>> Aalways replace old fuel after periods of inactivity
>> Iinspect fuel lines, manual priming bulb and connections for cracks and leaks
>> Clean out or replace fuel filter
>> For fuel disposal please make contact with your local council for details.

Batteries
>> Top up battery cells with distilled water and check each cell with a hydrometer
>> The battery should be charged at a rate that is suitable to the battery and should never be over-charged
>> Batteries should be secured in brackets
>> Battery terminals, cables and casing should be kept clean
>> Grease terminals regularly and test all equipment that uses the battery.

Boat structure
>> Clean and paint your boat regularly
>> Inspect boat for corrosion and cracks
>> Ensure all bungs are suitable and in good condition
>> Check for water and fuel leaks
>> Check and grease drain flaps
>> Ensure bilges are clean and dry
>> Test steering for stiffness - oil cables with the correct lubricant.