Is Your Boat Ready for Spring?

The start of spring is the best time of the year to get your boat’s spring commissioning underway!  A thorough spring commissioning checklist is important because it helps boat owners tend to neglected tasks, check for winter damage, and prepare a boat for the upcoming season.  By following a checklist, you can minimize the chances of something going wrong when out on the water. To spring commission your boat, start by removing winter storage covers, inspecting for damage, and de-winterizing the engine, plumbing, and electrical systems, check and refill fluids, and ensure all safety equipment is in good working order. 

Here's a more detailed checklist:

1. Uncover and inspect:

• Remove storage covers: Carefully remove any covers and inspect the hull, deck, and interior for any damage or issues that may have occurred during storage. 
• Clean and inspect: Give your boat a thorough cleaning, paying special attention to areas that may have accumulated dirt or debris during the winter months. 
• Check for damage: Look for any signs of damage, such as cracks, leaks, or loose fittings. 

2. De-winterize systems:

• Engine:

• Check and refill fluids: Ensure the engine has the correct amount of oil, coolant, and other fluids. 

• Change oil and filter: Perform a routine oil change and filter replacement. 

• Check belts and hoses: Inspect worn belts and hoses and replace them as needed. 

• Plumbing:

• Check and refill the cooling system: Ensure your cooling system is full and free of leaks. 

• Test the bilge pump: Make sure your bilge pump is working correctly and that the float switch is functioning properly. 

• Check stove and remote LPG tanks: Inspect for loose fittings, leaking hoses, and properly functioning shutoff systems. 

• Electrical:

• Reconnect the battery: Ensure your battery is properly connected and charged. 

• Check and clean terminals: Clean and inspect battery terminals for corrosion. 

• Test all electrical systems: Ensure all lights, radios, and other electrical systems are working correctly. 

3. Fuel System:

• Check the fuel tank: Ensure there are no leaks and that the tank is properly ventilated. 
• Check fuel filters: Replace fuel filters if necessary. 
• Fill with fresh fuel: Fill the fuel tank with the freshest, highest-quality fuel available. 
• Add fuel stabilizer: Add a fuel stabilizer to help prevent fuel from going bad. 

4. Safety Equipment:

• Check flares: Ensure all flares are within their expiration dates and replace any that are expired. Consider using electronic flares, which are considered a USCG compliant nighttime visual distress signal.

·         Test fire extinguishers: Check fire extinguishers for proper pressure and ensure they are in good working order. 

·         Check life jackets: Ensure life jackets are in good condition and properly sized and that you have enough onboard for all vessel operators and guests. 

·         Check anchor and chain: Inspect the anchor and chain for damage and ensure they are in good-working order. 

5. Antifouling:

• Check bottom paint: If your boat spends time in the water, ensure the bottom paint is in good condition and apply a fresh coat if necessary. 

6. Cleaning and Waxing:

• Give your boat a good cleaning and waxing: This will help protect the hull and gel coat. 

7. Steering and Controls:

• Check steering and controls: Test the steering wheel to ensure it moves freely with full range of motion and that the engine (or rudder) is moving as it is supposed to.
• Check for rust and grease buildup: Inspect mechanical steering systems for rust and excess grease buildup. 

8. Final Check:

• Conduct a final check: Before heading out on the water for the first time, conduct a final check to ensure everything is in good working order. Shop Neptunian Marine for daily sales and weekly specials on the spring commissioning products you have been looking for!