Spring Start-Up Checklist! Get your boat ready.

A general Spring Start-Up Checklist to get your boat ready!

Its that time of year again, you buttoned up the boat for winter and now its time to get her ready to get out on the water come Spring time. In order to ensure that your vessel is ready for the much anticipated boating season you should make sure that all the T’s have been crossed and all the I’s have been dotted. Check out this Spring Start-up Checklist to make sure your boating season gets off the a smooth start.

Spring Checklist here!

The following are general guidelines. Check your owner’s manual for manufacturer’s recommendations
or procedures specific to your boat.
FUEL SYSTEM
Inspect hoses, connections and tank surfaces
for leaks or damage
Replace components as needed
Verify all fittings and clamps are properly secured
Ensure the engine, exhaust, and ventilation
systems are functioning properly
BELTS, CABLES & HOSES
Check for cracks and brittle areas
Ensure belts fit tightly and are not worn
Inspect the outer jacket of control cables for
cracks or swells, which may indicate a problem
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Inspect all electrical connections for
cleanliness and tightness; corrosion may
indicate an unsafe condition
Remove terminals and clean with a wire bush;
clean cable ends
Change battery and ensure it can hold a charge
Electrical systems should be inspected
by a qualified technician regularly
FLUID LEVELS
Check engine oil, power steering, power trim
reservoirs and coolant levels
Change engine oil, oil filter and drive lubricants
if these tasks were not done prior to winterizing
PROPELLERS & HULLS
Inspect propellers for dings, pitting,
cracks and distortion
Make sure propeller is secured properly;
replace bearings if needed
Check hull for blisters, distortions and cracks
Clean the hull, deck and topsides
Ensure the drain plug is securely in place prior
to every launch
SAFETY GEAR
Inspect life jackets to ensure they are in good
condition; make sure there is one for each
potential passenger
Check that fire extinguishers are fully charged,
properly stowed and are the correct class for
your vessel
Take advantage of any safety inspections offered
by the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), USCG Auxiliary
or U.S. Power Squadron