Boat Maintenance Tips

You already know the delights of boating – from peacefully gliding across a lake to ripping some big curves with a water skier in tow. Of course, you always want to know the engine will start right up again for you, and take you where you need to go. Like with any machine, a little maintenance will go a long way to ensure that your vessel is reliable and won’t leave you in the embarrassing position of begging for a tow. Here’s a refresher on two must-do aspects of boat maintenance. Keep your engine and your propeller in order, and you’re off to a great start.

Why Maintain Your Boat

We’ll say it again. Reliability is something everyone values in a boat, and regular maintenance, service, and repair are critical to reliability. You want your boat to perform with maximum power and speed, so give it some attention to keep it running smoothly. Regular maintenance makes a big difference in fuel economy as well as performance. A properly maintained boat is also safer for you and your passengers.

Engine Care

Your engine is the heart and soul of your boat, so give it some love. Whether you’re running an outboard, inboard, or sterndrive motor, treat it nicely so it treats you nicely! Make it a habit to check your oil before every trip. Note the fill level, and top it off as needed. Notice any trends. For example, if you are suddenly adding oil each time you check, there’s probably something that needs attention.

Propeller Inspection

You should also add propeller inspection to your regular maintenance routine, assuming you’ve got an outboard or sterndrive boat. Remove the propeller with a socket wrench and a deep well socket. Take the time to check for any loose fishing line or other debris that may have become tangled around the shaft.

Inspect the blades for any dents, gouges, or missing chunks. Talk to a pro to determine whether the damage is severe enough to demand a replacement or other professional attention. Always address propeller issues as soon as you notice them. It’s possible to cause even more damage if you keep riding with a damaged propeller

That’s a quick start to your boat maintenance to-do list. If you have any questions or want to set up professional boat repair, we're here for you. Visit Revolutions Power Sports and Marine in Grand Forks, ND, where we offer a wide range of boats for sale. We welcome all those coming from Fargo and West Fargo.