Many boat owners attempt to do their own maintenance to save
money and have more control over their vessels whether it’s a luxury yacht, a
kayak, a Crownline boat or a Quintrex boat.
Doing so can be highly rewarding and financially beneficial, especially if you
use your boat often. However, there are many ways this can go wrong. Working on
a boat component you don’t fully understand or spending too much time or money
on your chosen repair could end up resulting in a personal loss.
So, what can you do to improve your DIY maintenance? Don’t
fret as we will give you tips on what to do and where to start:
Start With the Basics
There are certain elements of boat maintenance that almost
anyone can handle, so focus on these to start. Learning how to change the oil,
swap out filters, and inspect propellers for damage are all tasks that almost
any newcomer can confidently perform.
You’ll also want to learn how to check your bilge blower,
fuel tanks and pumps for leaks, replace your spark plugs, and lubricate moving
parts. If you're not sure how to do any of these things, consult your owner’s
manual, which should have detailed instructions for how to conduct regular
maintenance. You can also tap a marine technician or mechanic or expert to
demonstrate to you how to do some basic maintenance or repair jobs.
Know How Your Boat and Its Parts Function Normally
One of the most important aspects of boat maintenance is
recognising when something seems off. Noticing that your Mercury
outboard motor engine is making a weird noise or noticing water damage in
your fibreglass boat or corrosion of your aluminium boat could be a sign that
you need to take action proactively. Fixing a problem while it's small and
completely under your control can eventually save you money and reduce the
headache of a bigger problem. But in order to do this effectively, you first
need to understand what is “normal” for your boat. Pay close attention to how
your boat looks, how it sounds, and how it feels when you're using it.
Understand your Limitations
Too many people overestimate their abilities when they first
start practising DIY boat maintenance. After a couple of successful part
replacements or oil changes, they feel like they can do anything – which is not
exactly the case. Overconfidence is a leading cause of bad decisions here. If
you're confused about what you're doing, or if you're totally inexperienced
with a complex process, consider taking your book to a professional instead of
trying your luck on your own.
Keep Things Clean and Dry
A great strategy for preventing corrosion and deterioration
is to keep everything on your boat clean and dry as much as you can. Obviously,
since you'll be on the water regularly, it's impossible to keep your boat
entirely free of moisture. But do what you can to keep your boat’s surfaces
clear and relatively free of accumulated moisture.
Apply Protective Coatings Every Season
Wax and gel coatings can protect your vessel from damage, as
long as you apply these coatings proactively every season. Invest in better
products, follow the directions carefully, and apply these things consistently
to see the best possible results.
Replace Moving Parts Proactively
Speaking of moving parts, when you notice something wrong
with any important piece, like a belt, a spark plug, or a pump, replace that
part proactively. Don't gamble with something that may or may not serve its
function, or else you may run into a bigger problem later.
Store Your Boat Where Elements Can’t Damage It
Most long-term problems with boat deterioration can be
prevented with proper storage. Covering your boat tightly, cleaning it before
storage, and choosing the right storage facility can all greatly minimise the
damage your boat accumulates during winter and when not in use. Check on your
boat regularly when in storage.
Don’t Disregard Boat Trailer Maintenance
Finally, incorporate some kind of boat trailer maintenance
as well, if you plan on transporting your boat in any capacity. Make sure your
boat trailer is functional and secure before transporting.