Key Maintenance Tasks to Keep Your Boat in Top Shape

There are some regular boat maintenance tasks that you'll likely handle yourself and other tasks that most boat owners leave to professionals. Here's a basic boat maintenance checklist that you can use for reference. If you're looking to buy a boat in the future, contact us at Shoreline Boat Center in Green Lake, Wisconsin, to browse our inventory of new and used boats. We also welcome Oshkosh, Fond Du Lac, and Ripon, Wisconsin, customers!

The Basics 

Thanks to newer boating manufacturing materials and technology, this list is much shorter than that of a wooden boat. With modern fiberglass and aluminum construction, there are far less complications that can occur, compared to decades past. Here are the basic items that would appear on any modern boating checklist. 

• Engine(s).
• The bottom and topsides of the hull.
• Electrical systems.
• Plumbing and HVAC systems (if applicable).
• Moving parts, such as hinges, tracks, and zippers.
• Canvas and upholstery.

Cleaning and waxing are critical on fiberglass gel coats. Without it, the coating will oxidize and turn chalky. Another problem that is prevented with regular cleaning is bilge pump clogs and leaking fuel or other fluids. Besides cleaning the boat and lubricating parts, you don't have much else to worry about unless you spot a problem. 

Saltwater Flush and Visual Inspection

One vital task to take care of after boating in saltwater is flushing your engine. Seek your engine manufacturer's manual to find the recommendations for flushing the engine. Other than those tasks, you should visually check all of your boat's systems to make sure nothing is amiss. 

Professionals usually do boat maintenance chores like changing the engine's oil, lubricating the fittings, bottom hull painting, and trailer maintenance. While some boaters enjoy taking the DIY route for boat maintenance, most opt to have the pros handle the bigger stuff. Though, most modern watercrafts are generally low maintenance. Beyond regular cleaning and engine flushing, annual boat costs are usually only about 10% of the boat's price. The cost to maintain your boat will depend on the type and size of the boat you buy and how much you use it. 

Since boating construction and technology have advanced, regular boat maintenance is relatively simple. The bigger tasks involved with yearly maintenance or repairs can be done yourself; however, it can be cost-effective and easier for you to have professionals handle it. At Shoreline Boat Center in Green Lake, Wisconsin, we can help you with further information regarding your boat's maintenance. We also serve the Oshkosh, Fond Du Lac, and Ripon, Wisconsin areas!