34 Chapter One
CHECK THE BOAT AND
EQUIPMENT
First, check the boat and the equipment
aboard. You must have the required equipment
onboard in serviceable condition.
An annual Vessel Safety Check (VSC) is
a great way to start each boating season.
Trained inspectors will provide an examination
of required as well as other useful
safety equipment. As we learned in
section 2, Federal mandated equipment
is minimal, and additional equipment is
needed for safe operation and navigation,
such as listed in Table 3-1.
Now that you are sure you have the
proper equipment, turn your attention to
the boat. Remember, repairs while on the
water may be difficult or even impossible.
Hull condition. This is easy if the
boat is on a trailer. Check for any cracks or
crazing on the hull. Tap the hull to make
sure it is solid. Test the transom by pulling
on it to make sure it is solid as well. If the
boat has a bilge drain plug, is it in place?
If the boat is in the water, look around the
waterline and then in the bilge to make
sure there is no water intrusion. While in
the bilge, look for any cracks or signs of
weakness and check all fittings, especially
those that go through the hull below the
waterline. Also check the cleats and other
above-deck fittings to make sure they
are securely fastened. At least once each
year, check (and repair immediately):
the ignition shut-down switch for
operability
electrical system wires and connectors
for insulation and corrosion
fuel system for grounding, hose deterioration
and hose clamps for corrosion
cooling system for proper temperature,
hose and water pumps for leaks,
and hose clamps for corrosion
through-hull fittings and hose clamps
for corrosion.
Rigging and Sails. Rigging is subjected
to many stresses during use. Look for
signs of wear or fraying. Replace any rigging
that is suspect.
3
4
5
5a
5b
5c
5d
5e
6
Table 3-2. Routine Maintenance Tips
Hull Condition
Do you see any cracks or crazing?
Does the hull sound solid?
Pull on the transom. Is it solid?
If there is a drain plug, is it in place?
Check the bilge. Is there water in the bilge? Are there any oily rags in
any space? These are fire hazards and must be removed from the vessel.
Check for cracks, around all fittings, above and below the waterline,
including around chainplates, cleats, etc.
Rigging and Sails
Look for signs for wear or fraying.
Repair small tears or open seams by taping or sewing.
Keep lines clean, store in a dry area, out of the sun.
Engines, Fuel Tanks and Lines
Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance plan.
Keep it clean!
Check for cracks or leaks.
Check for firm hoses free of leaks and use double clamps.
Make sure the backfire arrestor is attached and servicable.
Check belts
Check for battery corrosion
Check for anything unusual.
Figure 3-1. Checking the boat’s condition