Proper Boat Maintenance

When you make a major investment into something big like a boat, you’ll want to do everything you can to take good care of it. After all, you want your craft to last and continue to deliver superior performance for years to come. Fortunately, with a bit of time and effort, you’ll be well on your way to maintaining a healthy boat. If you’re not sure where to begin, you’ve come to the right place. The Harbor has created this helpful guide on proper boat maintenance.

If you’re still shopping around for the perfect model, visit our dealership to check out our inventory. We’re conveniently located in Branson, MO, near Springfield. We also offer parts and boat maintenance in Missouri.

Engine Care

Your vessel isn’t going to get very far if you don’t take care of the engine. Whether it’s an outboard, inboard, or sterndrive motor, you’ll need to tend to it on a routine basis to confirm the internal combustion is functioning correctly and efficiently. As you may know, oil is the most critical component in this case. There should be plenty of oil and it should be the right consistency. It should be clear and free of metal shavings as well. If you notice any debris floating about, this could indicate a larger problem and you’ll need to take it in for service.

Start by getting in the habit of checking your oil before each boating trip. Confirm that the level is within the suggested guidelines for your particular craft and top off if necessary. If you notice the oil appears cloudy or sludgy, it’s time for an oil change. This is recommended for every 100 hours of operation.

Routine oil changes are the key to proper boat maintenance as they keep your motor running well. This can save you expensive mechanic fees in the long run. When you check your oil regularly, you’ll be able to catch problems before they become major. The good news is that this particular step doesn’t require too much of your time or effort.

Wash Your Boat

You might be surprised to learn that washing your boat affects the overall condition of the craft. Over time, saltwater buildup can be harmful to the vessel. It can corrode the metal as well as dull the gel coat and paint finishes if left untreated. You can use a special marine wash that’s designed for use on the unique construction of your boat. Make sure you scrub with a soft-bristle brush so you don’t end up scratching it. Clean it in small sections to prevent the soap from drying too quickly and marring the finish before you get a chance to wash it off.

You can simplify the boat-washing process by rinsing your boat off after each saltwater trip. Your goal should be to wash off any moss an oil residue. When you do this, you'll wash away loose debris before it has a chance to crust onto your boat and permanently damage the finish. This is a quick and easy process. You’ll have to do it after each excursion, but it’s going to save you a lot more time in the grand scheme of things. Not to mention the fact that you won’t have to work so hard when it’s time to scrub.

Propeller Inspection

Finally, be sure to inspect your propeller. Those who own an outboard and sterndrive boat will need to check their propeller on a regular basis. You can use a deep well socket to remove it, which allows you to examine it more closely. Check for any loose fishing line that may have gotten tangled around the shaft. Depending on the severity, this could require professional boat maintenance. Look over the propeller for any dents or chunks in the blades, which will need to be replacedt. If you go boating with a damaged propeller, you could end up causing further damage. Always address propeller issues before hitting the water again.

If you need assistance with boat maintenance in Missouri, don’t hesitate to contact The Harbor. We’re located in Branson, MO, near Kansas City. We can also assist with Table Rock Lake boat maintenance.