Preventative Maintenance

Keeping your vessel well maintained will extend its life and help keep you safe.

Always keep your PWC in first-class operating condition. Keep the hull free of damage, algae, and other growths. Keep the engine and the engine compartment free of grease and oil buildup. Keep the engine properly tuned. The electrical and fuel systems should be examined regularly to make sure they are in proper working order. Check all fuel lines and connections for leaks. Sniff around gas lines, motor, and bilges for fumes. Your nose is an important boating safety tool.

Check the battery fluid regularly and make sure that all of the electrical connections are clean and tight. Make sure all cables are lubricated and working smoothly. Check for loose nuts, bolts, and screws. Your PWC operates in a stressful environment!

Preventive Maintenance For Other Vessels

Over time PWC owners either purchase or operate other types of boats so in addition to the information provided above powerboat owners should place special attention on engine maintenance:

Engine

Engine maintenance tips include:

• Change oil frequently - following manufacturer's minimum recommendations or once each season.



• Check and replace any belts or hoses that appear to be deteriorating.



• Check for oil and/or water leaks every time before leaving the dock.



• Flush your engine with fresh water after operating in salt water.



• Check impellers and pumps to anticipate a failure.



• Watch for the beginning of corrosion and take measures to stop it before it becomes a problem.



• Check and service transmissions and lower units according to manufacturer's recommendations.



• Change fluids on a recommended schedule or at least once each season.



• Keep shafts and props in clean and good working order.

General Maintenance for Larger Vessels

Keep the hull and decks of the boat clean and properly waxed. This will protect the hull from deterioration from the sun. Also, a clean hull will give you better fuel efficiency. Fiberglass should be cleaned with fresh water and a non abrasive soap. If necessary, a soft brush should be used to help remove debris caught in crevices. Patch any cracks which may occur due to stress, age or accident.

Keep all aluminum and stainless parts clean and polished with a high quality metal wax. If not maintained, metals on boats corrode quickly, especially in a salt water environment. Check all screws, bolts and other fittings to keep secure.

Problems on larger boats are often due to corroded electrical systems. Keep all electrical fittings dry, free of corrosion, and coat with a water repelling, non-conductive grease or corrosion inhibitor.

If at all possible, keep your boat under cover in a garage, carport or boat storage unit. At minimum keep a cover on your boat to protect it from the effects of the sun and rain.

Systems

Especially important in larger vessels is the continual maintenance of each system on the boat. An adequate and properly working system will make each boating experience a pleasant one. Provide preventive maintenance according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Check the following:

• Fuel system



• Fresh water system



• Generator



• Electrical



• Batteries



• Air Conditioning



• Refrigeration



• Head and waste system



• Cooking facilities

Keeping your boat in good working order is just as much a part of the boating experience as the boating itself. Negligence in this area will eventually lead to an unsafe or disastrous experience.

Boat Checklist

Many boaters find it beneficial to create a check-list. This insures that all the required equipment is onboard and in proper working order.

Fire Extinguisher
A U.S. Coast Guard approved fire extinguisher in proper working order aboard and stowed properly.

Steering Control
Working properly.

Fuel/Oil Levels
OK

Engine Compartment
Ventilated. Left open for a few minutes prior to starting the engine to clear fumes.

No Leaks
Check fuel lines, fuel tank, oil tank and exhaust systems.

Hose Connections
Tight and secure.

Battery
Properly charged with acceptable fluid levels.

Owner's Manual
On board in a waterproof container.