Helpful Tips for Repairing and Maintaining Your Boat

Just like vehicles, boats need regular repair and maintenance services to run safely and smoothly. Luckily, most upkeep-related tasks are easy to perform yourself, with a little patience and ingenuity.

Keep the Boat Clean

Boats are exposed to many elements due to their time on the water. Regularly cleaning your vessel can go a long way toward protecting and maintaining its exterior. Clean water, a soft-bristle brush, boat wax, and specifically designed boat soap are all you need to wash any harmful residues off your boat and preserve its outer shell.

Change the Oil and Filter

Changing the engine oil and filter at the recommended service intervals can help keep your boat’s engine parts lubricated. It also prevents the temperature of the internal engine from rising above the safe level. Always consult your vessel’s manufacturer’s manual for information related to oil requirements and filter and oil change frequency.

Inspect Your Propeller

Propeller maintenance is essential, especially for stern- and outboard-drive boats. Before heading out on the water, make sure that the vessel’s propeller is secure and tight. Also, ensure that the craft’s propeller shaft is free from dirt and debris. It’s common for fishing lines to get trapped around the shaft, causing gear case leaks. Routinely check the propeller for wear and tear to avoid unnecessary repair costs.

Check and Clean the Batteries

Boat batteries degrade with time, even when you're not using them. Power leaks and drains can also develop. If you don’t address these issues early enough, you might find yourself stuck on the water without powered controls or lights. Monitor your battery’s charge using a digital voltage meter, and check all the connections for any corrosion. If necessary, clean the connectors using a wire brush. 

Make an Engine Checklist

It is always important to check your boat’s engine to make sure everything is in good working condition before you head out. Creating a personal checklist that you can refer to every time can go a long way toward keeping you safe when boating. You'll want to check the batteries, propeller, oil levels, rails, fenders, and oil filters, among other things. Keeping an eye on your boat’s components will ensure their longevity and help you avoid unpleasant surprises while on the water.

Proper boat maintenance and repair are must-dos for every boat owner. Following this simple maintenance guide will help you keep your craft seaworthy and safe for a long time. Are you ready to find your perfect boat? Then visit the team at Moritz Marine in Mandan, North Dakota. We proudly serve those in Bismarck, Dickinson, and surrounding areas.