Aluminium boats,
affectionately known as "tinnies" throughout Australia, are beloved
for their durability, lightweight construction, and low-maintenance reputation.
However, "low maintenance" doesn't mean no maintenance. Proper care
of your tinny ensures it remains reliable, retains value, and delivers decades
of service. Whether you fish saltwater, explore freshwater rivers, or cruise
coastal bays, these maintenance practices keep your aluminium boat in top
condition.
Rinse Your Tinny Every Time After Saltwater Use
This is non-negotiable. Saltwater aggressively corrodes
aluminium, particularly around rivets, welds, and fittings where moisture gets
trapped. Immediately after returning from saltwater, thoroughly rinse your
entire tinny; this means you need to hose the hull, deck, interior, and
especially the trailer with fresh water.
Pay special attention to areas where salt accumulates, such
as around the transom, under seats, inside rod holders, and around hardware.
Salt left to dry crystallises and accelerates corrosion that weakens structural
integrity over time. A standard garden hose works perfectly for routine rinsing.
Freshwater boaters aren't completely exempt; you might be
boating in areas where saltwater mixes with freshwater. Periodic rinsing
removes algae, mud, and other organic material that stain aluminium and create
slippery, unsafe surfaces.
Regular Washing and Cleaning
Beyond quick rinses, wash your tinny thoroughly every few
weeks during active seasons. Use marine-specific boat soap or pH-balanced
cleaners designed for aluminium, never harsh household cleaners or acidic
solutions that damage aluminium's protective oxide layer.
Work from top to bottom with soft sponges or brushes,
scrubbing away fish blood, bait residue, algae stains, and general grime.
Non-skid surfaces need particular attention as they trap dirt and become
slippery when contaminated. Rinse completely, ensuring no soap residue remains.
For stubborn oxidation, waterline stains, or discolouration,
specialised aluminium cleaners containing mild acids safely restore brightness.
Always test new products on inconspicuous areas first and follow the manufacturer's
directions precisely.
Check and Maintain Rivets
Rivets are crucial for maintaining the integrity of your
tinny. Regularly check for corrosion, looseness, and leaks. White powdery
deposits indicate corrosion, while weeping rivets show water stains and need
immediate attention. Promptly tighten or replace compromised rivets. While DIY
replacement is possible for handy owners, structural rivets affecting hull
integrity should be handled by a professional to ensure proper installation and
watertight seals.
Protect and Seal
Consider applying marine-grade wax or aluminium polish a few
times a year. These coatings fill surface imperfections and simplify cleaning
while preserving the metallic finish.
Inspect and maintain sealants around fittings, hatches, and
deck-to-hull joints, as deteriorated sealants can lead to water intrusion and
corrosion. Remove old, cracked sealant and reapply marine-grade products
designed for aluminium.
Interior Care and Drainage
Don't neglect your tinny's interior. Remove standing water
from the bilge after every trip. Clean fish boxes, live bait tanks, and storage
compartments regularly, removing organic material that creates odours and
corrosion. Ensure drain plugs and scuppers function properly, allowing water to
exit efficiently. Blocked drains create pools where corrosion accelerates.
Trailer Maintenance
Your tinny's trailer needs care too. Rinse thoroughly after
saltwater use, paying attention to bearings, springs, and metal parts. Check
tyre pressure regularly, inspect bearings annually and repack with marine-grade
grease. Ensure rollers or bunks support the hull without stress points. Touch up paint chips to prevent rust, as
corroded trailers can fail and cause accidents.
Inspect Hardware and Fittings
Regularly inspect stainless steel and aluminium hardware such
as cleats, railings, seat bases, and rod holders. Tighten loose fittings to
prevent stress and cracks, using marine-grade sealant to avoid water intrusion.
Replace corroded or damaged fittings to prevent failure, and use modern
materials to prevent galvanic corrosion between different metals.
Proper Storage
Store your tinny on its trailer with the drain plug removed
for complete water drainage. Use a quality cover to prevent UV damage, bird
droppings, and debris, ensuring it’s ventilated to avoid moisture buildup.
Tinny
boats are tough but need care. These maintenance tips ensure your aluminium
boat remains reliable for decades, upholding its reputation as a practical and
durable choice.