Engine Maintenance

Maintenance of the engine and associated components are an essential part of being a boat owner and skipper of the vessel.

1. Engine Maintenance (Gasoline and Diesel as appropriate)

Fluids

• Weekly or Before Each Trip: Check engine oil, coolant, and transmission fluid levels.
• Every 100 Hours: Change the engine oil and oil filter, or as specified in your owner’s manual.
• Annually: Flush the engine cooling system to remove salt deposits and replace the coolant.

Belts and Hoses

• Monthly: Inspect hoses and belts for cracks, wear, or loose connections. Tighten or replace as necessary.
• Annually: Replace belts and hoses as part of regular preventive maintenance.

Impellers and Water Pumps

• Annually or Every 100 Hours: Inspect the raw water impeller and replace if it shows signs of wear. Replace water pump seals and gaskets if leaking.

Fuel System

• Before Each Trip: Inspect fuel lines for cracks, leaks, or corrosion. Perform a smell test.
• Annually: Replace fuel filters, inspect the fuel tank for leaks, and ensure fuel is stabilized if stored for long periods.

2. Steering and Propulsion System Maintenance

Steering

• Before Each Trip: Test the steering for smooth operation and inspect cables, hydraulic lines, or other components for wear or leaks.
• Annually: Grease mechanical steering components. Inspect and if deemed necessary replace hydraulic fluid.

Propeller and Shaft

• Before Each Trip: Check the propeller for dings, nicks, or bending. Remove debris like fishing line from the shaft.
• Annually: Inspect the propeller shaft for alignment and corrosion. Replace the prop if damaged beyond repair.

3. Seasonal or Storage Maintenance

Winterization

• Drain water from the engine, water systems, and plumbing.
• Add fuel stabilizer to the tank and run the engine to circulate the treated fuel.
• Remove and store the battery in a cool, dry place, or maintain charge with a trickle charger.

Spring Preparation

• Reverse the winterization process by filling the systems with freshwater, recharging batteries, and conducting a thorough inspection before the boating season starts.