How To Maintain Your Boat

A boat is not like a car, so unless you use a full-service marina, it will require constant attention to keep it in good condition, secure, and working as it should. Here are the top 10 maintenance tips for looking after your boat at Victory Sailboat Club.

Use the right materials to take care of your gel coat.

Yes, gel coats are strong, but improper cleaners can dissolve them or stain them, so choose the right boat cleaners and use them frequently to keep the gel coat on your boat protected. When the gel coat is strong, you can remove most stains with careful polishing, but if it begins to wear down, you may not be able to remove all stains, so protection from the start is crucial.


Remove any moisture by wiping it off.

Always have some towels on hand and dry off your boat after use. We don't only mean after you get out of the water, however drying after use is crucial for avoiding waterline stains. However, if moisture remains on your boat for too long, it will damage it. Drying off the water as soon as you detect it can help prevent saltwater corrosion, morning dew that encourages mildew, and scuppers water that can stain the hull with microscopic minerals.


Establish Your Eye Schedule.

Know your boat's exact oil needs, which change depending on the model and kind of engine. As needed, change the oil. The simplest method is to take your boat to a licensed dealer, who will perform an oil change. With an oil extractor pump, an oil wrench, and the time to work and clean up, you can replace it yourself, but it takes some practice to get the hang of it. If you don't know what you're doing, avoid attempting to change the oil.


Prior to each trip, always check the engine.

Before heading out on an adventure, you should give your boat's engine a careful once-over. Follow a checklist each time you use your boat to ensure that your engine is prepared for the trip. Never leave the boat without enough gasoline, check the fuel level, and if necessary, check the water coolant level. Additionally, check the bilge and hoses for any indication of leaks. Ensure sure the reservoir has adequate oil, and while operating the boat, keep an eye on the voltmeters and the oil pressure to make sure everything is operating as it should. Additionally, this is an excellent time to inspect your wiring.


Apply a new wax coat after dewaxing.

A typical pre-season step to get your boat ready for the surf is a fresh wax coat. Dewaxing first, however, can increase the effectiveness of the wax coat. Your new wax layer will apply more easily after using dewaxing solvents, which are widely available and simple to use.


In the off-season, maintain and protect your battery.

Don't just leave your boat's batteries sitting around in the off-season! Take them out, give them a thorough cleaning, lube the metal bolts and terminals, charge them, and then store them safely. Know how your battery responds to temperature changes, understand options like float charge, and confirm that your specific battery won't be harmed during off-season storage.


Utilize fuel stabilizer sparingly and with care as needed.

Make sure you have enough gasoline and are aware of the appropriate boat maintenance required for the type of fuel you are using. Keep your tank full whenever you can to keep moisture out, and know whether or not your fuel requires additives. To assist get your boat ready for the following year, empty your fuel or add a preventive fuel stabilizer during the off-season.


Eliminate and safeguard against molds.

On your boat, mold may be unsightly, irritating, and sneaky. After using your boat, dry it out completely to get rid of any leftover moisture, and then wash it off with a mild solution to destroy any mold spores that might be present. Mold may usually be killed with a little vinegar mixture without damaging any of your coatings.