Oh Yes! Once again it is time to get your boat out of winter hibernation
and get it ready for this years adventures on the water.
The unusal trend is to wait until those first warm and sunny days come
along and suddenly everyone wants their boat ready yesterday! Whether
you do it yourself, or take your boat to a service centre for Spring
re-comissioning, having a little time to do the job thoroughly makes all
the difference in the world.
Over the past 25 years in the marine service industry, I have had much
opportunity to observe the causes of marine engine and equipment
failure, which often turn your fun filled days into a summer nightmare.
I have made a check list that should make your boating season hassle
free, if followed. This check list can be done by you if you are a DIY,
or you can ensure your service centre does the necessary service and checks.
1.BATTERIES:
Charge & load test batteries. Donít try to get another year out of a
weak battery.
2. ENGINE TUNE-UP:
For the most part, marine engines operate in a harsh environment and are
subject to high levels of condesation, and should be tuned up. Have this
professionally done at your marine service centre. On older engines
replace the ignition points, condenser, rotor and distributor cap.
Replace ignition components even if you did not use your boat much last
year. Replace spark plugs depending on usage ñ believe me, you donít
want the costly results of rusted and seized spark plugs.
On electronic ignition systems replace the rotor and distributor cap.
Engines equipped with electronic fuel injection systems (EFI) should
have the electronic control module (ECM) checked for fault codes.
Make sure the flame arrestor on the carburetor air intake is clean.
3. ENGINE OIL:
If the engine oil was not changed in the fall it should definitely be
done now, along with a new oil filter.
Regular oil changes increases the life of your engine significantly.
4. FUEL FILTERS:
Install a new fuel filter. If your boat does not have a water seperator
fuel filter, have one installed. It is well worth it. They do exactly
what they say and by removing water from the fuel you prevent water
getting into the carburetor of fuel injectors, which can be a costly no-no.
5. BELTS:
Check drive belts that turn the alternator, power steering pumps, raw
water pumps, etc. check for loose, worn cracked or oil damaged belts.
Belts over four years old should be replaced.
6. HOSES & CLAMPS:
Check all hoses on the engine and in the engine compartment. Check for
cracks, etc. Some hoses get very hard with age, others get soft. Make
sure hose clamps are tight. Replace corroded clamps.
HOWE SOUND MARINE LTD.
~ peak power performance ~
P. O. Box 604, Lions Bay, BC V0N 2E0
Phone: 664-1088 Fax: 664-1084
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