Basic Boating Information

Return to Table of Contents

1

Boating Terms

2

Hull Designs

3

Boat Length

4

Propulsion

5

Capacity

6

Hull Identification Numbers

7

Homemade Boats

8

Recall Hotline

9

Theft Prevention

10

Loaning a Boat

11

Lines and Knots

12

Trailers and Trailering

13

Boat Ramps

14

Weather

15

Float Plans

16

Boat Maintenance

17

Fueling

18

Environmental Considerations

19

Chapter Review

BOAT MAINTENANCE

Keeping your boat in top condition will help eliminate mechanical problems. A checklist is an excellent way to ensure you have inspected your boat, engine and trailer. Maintain all components regularly and inspect critical items frequently. Boaters are advised to keep the motor tuned, change the oil, and perform regular maintenance. If mechanical components fail, they must be replaced with marine grade components. Never use automotive parts to replace marine engine parts.

CHECKLIST FOR THE HULL, ENGINE, ELECTRONICS, AND TRAILER/VEHICLE

 

RED = Inspect before each outing

BLUE = Inspect regularly
   
1. Hull and through-hull fittings.
  Look for signs of structural weakness (stress cracks, gouges, chips, blisters, loose rivets)
  Loose caulking or packing of through-hull fittings
  Unusual discoloring of the hull.
  Unusual amount of marine growth
  Cleats and tie-down points in good condition
   
2. Engine compartment.
  Check all hoses
  Inspect belts
  Look for signs of leaking oil or water (Even a small amount of fluid loss could mean major problems. Fix any leaks and replace any worn belts immediately).
  Check all fluid levels - oil, power steering, expansion tank, etc. Fill to manufactures specifications.
  Ensure the backfire flame arrestor is securely attached and clean
  Inspect ventilation hoses
   
3. Electrical equipment.
  VHF-FM marine radio
  Raise and lower the outdrive
  Ventilation blower
  Bilge pump
  Navigation lights
  Horn
  Depth finder
  Global Positioning System (GPS)
  Shore Power connection
  Anchor winch
  Other electrical equipment
   
4. Trailer
  Tire pressure
  Test all lights (brake, turning, back-up)
  Test brakes if installed
  Tie-down straps
  Winch cable, strap or line
  Chains
  Trailer tongue and hitch
  Spare Tire, jack and tools
  Lock
  Wheel bearings well greased (should be visually inspected often)
  Is license plate current?
   
5. Vehicle hitch and lights
  Correct size trailer hitch ball
  Trailer light connection
  Power winch cable connection
   
6. Sailboats
  Mast, boom, other
  Sails, halyards, sheets, stay
   

   
Copyright © 2004-2007 American Boating Education
Last Modified: April 28, 2005