Fuel System
- Inspect the fuel system for leaks or damage and be sure to pay special attention to fuel hoses, connections and tank surfaces.
- Evidence of a damaged fuel hose includes softness, brittleness or cracking.
- Replace components when necessary and verify all fittings and clamps are properly secured.
- Ensure the engine, exhaust and ventilation systems are all functioning properly.
- Look before you pump. Don’t fill your tank with fuel that contains more than 10% ethanol (E10) as it will damage your engine
- Check belts, cables and hoses because they can become brittle and may crack during winter storage.
- Belts should fit tightly around pulleys to prevent slipping.
- A worn belt may leave a black residue near the pulley and will fit loosely.
- Cracks or swells on the outer jacket of throttle, shift and steering control cables may be of internal corrosion and immanent failure
- Inspect all electrical connections for clean, tight, corrosion free connections. Corroded connections can be dangerous
- Remove corroded terminals and use a wire brush to clean them, along with all cable ends.
- Charge your battery and have it tested to ensure it can hold a charge.
- Electrical systems should be regularly inspected by a qualified technician.
- Check all fluid levels including engine oil, power steering, power trim reservoirs and coolant.
- Be sure to change the engine oil, oil filter and drive lubricants if these tasks were not done prior to winterizing your boat.
- Inspect propellers for dings, pitting, cracks and distortion.
- Damaged propellers can cause unwanted vibration and damage to your drive train.
- Make sure the propeller is secured properly, and replace bearings when needed.
- When inspecting the hull, look for blisters, distortions and cracks. Be sure to clean the hull, deck, and topsides using an environmentally safe cleaning solution.
- Also, make sure the drain plug is securely in place before every launch.
- Check your life jackets to ensure they are in good condition and that there are enough on board for all potential passengers.
- Ensure that each individual has the correct size life jacket for their body weight.
- Be sure all onboard fire extinguishers are the correct class for your vessel, and are fully charged and stowed in the proper place.
- For any enclosed or semi-enclosed area, ensure you have at least one properly installed and working carbon monoxide detector
- Consider an EPIRB for situations of distress to ensure you can be found
- Take advantage of any safety inspections offered by the US Coast Guard (USCG), USCG Auxiliary or US Power Squadrons.