Getting Your Boat Ready for Summer

Warm weather has finally arrived and this is the perfect time to take your boat out on the water. At the end of the day, everyone enjoys boating in a unique way, so your preparation process might look a bit different from others. We’ve provided some tips to help you prepare for this boating season. But if you need additional help with some of the mechanical checks, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at our dealership.

Your Boat

Of course, the first step you’ll want to take is taking your boat out of storage, if you haven’t already done. To do this, you’ll want to start by checking your owner’s manual. We can offer tips that apply broadly to most vessels, but to find specific tips for your model, you’ll need your manual. If you don’t have it or can’t find it, check out the manufacturer’s site for a downloadable copy.

Hull and Topside

There are several easy ways you can ensure your boat is ready for summer, no matter what kind of mechanical background you have. One is to carefully perform a thorough inspection of the hull, deck, and the area where the engine is stored, especially if you have a sterndrive. While you are at it, wipe off all the dust and dirt and look for signs of damage or excessive wear and tear that will need to be addressed.

Mechanical Parts

Inspect the wiring for corrosion or signs that a rodent chewed through them in which case the wires will have to be replaced. Change parts if needed and tighten anything that’s too loose. If you’re struggling with anything that’s stuck on tight, look for some of the lubricants recommended by the manufacturer in your manual. Finally, make sure your battery is in good condition by checking the charge and connecting it back up to the engine.

Engine

You’ll want to do a little work on the engine, which includes things like changing the oil (or at least checking it) and any applicable filters. Also, check the drive belts, fuel lines, hoses, and clamps to ensure there’s no damage or wear. It may also be time to replace the spark plugs. There are a lot of more complex steps when you’re working on the engine, so if you’d rather have a professional look at it, schedule an appointment with our service department.

Packing

There’s more to preparing for the summer boating season than just getting your vessel ready. You’ll also want to make sure you have all your gear and supplies ready. This should include the essential gear you’ll need for whatever you have planned, from fishing supplies to watersports gear or maybe even some games for fun.

We hope that this guide has been helpful. If you need any assistance with maintenance or repairs, be sure to contact us at Yankee Boating Center in Lake George and Diamond Point, NY. We welcome all our patrons visiting us from Clayton.