7 Tips for Keeping Your Boat Running Safely

You put in the work this spring to get your boat in tip-top shape for the summer, and now is the time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. However, smart boaters know they still need to give their boats some TLC during the boating season. Performing routine maintenance on your boat during the season will keep your vessel running smoothly and keep your fun-filled boating days fun-filled. Here’s how to do that.

1.Watch your fuel. Top off your fuel tank before departure and then check it again when you return. If your engine is burning too much fuel, you have a problem that needs to be checked out.

2.Check your prop. Frequently inspect your boat’s propeller for any damage. If it is damaged, it can strain your engine or even leave you stranded.

3.Check The soundings.Although boat electronics were once priced out of the reach of many average boaters, today there are lots of reasonably priced devices out there to help in shallow-water situations. For most folks, it will be a depth finder. But if your conditions are extreme, it makes sense to consult a chart…either electronic or paper. They contain valuable information called "soundings" that show the depths of any particular area you may be traveling. What you’re really looking for are the areas where the water suddenly gets shallower. Steer clear of those areas.

4.Inspect your battery connections. Make sure your battery connections are clean and tight, and check electrolyte levels for signs of an overcharged battery.

5.Check your hoses, fittings and tanks. Before you leave the dock, make sure your hoses, fittings and tanks are not leaking. If they are, it could damage your motor. Even worse: they can create a fire hazard.

6.Know the tides.Even if you got through some skinny water yesterday without incident, you always need to check the tide schedule before trying it again. Many coastal areas deal with a significant tidal change of up to several feet, making low tide extremely treacherous when you’re shoving off. Worse still, you could snake your way to some great flats fishing, then find yourself stranded for hours until the tide comes back in. Don’t let this happen to you!

7.Inspect your hull and engine cases. Look for any signs of corrosion on your hull and engine cases before you hit the water.