General maintenance ?

[Duckenfuss]

I just got my first boat and wanted some input from those of you who know better than I. I got a 16' with 40hp. What are some general tips to keeping it running well? It is at the house on the Alsea and need to know how to winterize or if I need to. I plan on getting some books or something to help but thought you generous individuals might give me a head start. I have never owned a boat before and feel a bit lost as to what needs to be maintained. Anything helps.

[trap50]

Lots of good advise here. Dig around the search.

[Draggin' Bait]

Wow -- wide open Q. Congrats on the boat! As said, lots of available help. I'd list it in three catagories: engine, boat and trailer.

For the engine, winterize properly when not to be used for extended periods (plugs, fuel and oil filters, zerc fittings, fuel lines and fittings, fuel preservative, upright storage position (and covered if at all possible), lower unit oil free of water, injectors/carbs cleaned at least annually.

For the trailer, keep an eye on the wheel bearings (particularly if you ever fish salt water). I completely replace my bearings and races at least once per year and I check them at least one other time per year, maybe twice if I've been out on the ocean a lot. Keep an eye on your tire air pressure to avoid a blowout. Check and maintain your brakes (if any) and monitor the brake fluid level. When I park for the winter, I put the axle on blocks to take the weight off the bearings (think of all that weight on the same couple of round bearings for months at a time). Keep an eye on your bunks and rollers and replace them as needed. Electrical system is a continual nuisance and you can expect to change a light at least annually.

For the boat, keep it covered when not in use, and in the garage if possible. Keep it dry to prevent mildew (check under seat cushions and other odd spots). During the winter I put an open box of baking soda in the cabin to absorb stray moisture -- don't know if it helps but it is cheap and I don't get mildew! Fuel tanks full to minimize water absorbtion, and check the fuel filter once in awhile.

I'm sure I've forgotten several items, and some people may not do everything I do, but I've found (the hard way) that if I don't keep on top of all the systems, I have an "issue" at a bad time!

[Draggin' Bait]

Almost forgot electronics! If you can, take them off the boat and store them in the house for the winter to avoid extremes of temperature swings and the risk of moisture gradually getting inside. You can' take the transducer or antenna off, of course, but displays and radios certainly!

[Duckenfuss]

Thanks guys. I'm going down to get it tomorrow and bring it to the house. I appreciate the replies.

[KChookem]

I glean a lot of information from West Marine's "West Advisor", which you can find online or in their catelog. Check the Bearing Buddy website for information on how to maintain and use their devices (wheel bearing are just one of the pains of boat ownership). If you do not have the mainuals for your boat, motor and trailer, you may be able to find good info at their respective website.

Saltwater and salt air are tough on boats, so wash/rinse your boat, motors and trailers well. Even galvanized trailers will should some rust wear and tear. A search or just reading Ifish will find you a tons of things, but here are a few...

I always unplug my lights before launching. I've also thoroughly lubed bulbs, bases and all exposed light parts with Dielectric grease. I look for places were copper electrical wire can be exposed, and seal them thoroughly with liquid electrical "tape", then I either shrink wrap or tape them carefully. Do not forget about othr electrical connections, like batteries, fuse panels, and boat-interior connections such as depth sounders.

Look for "outta-sight; outta mind" things like the snaps that hold boat tops. Use something like "Corrision Block" to keep the male & female parts from bonding together. (The bonding, or galvanic action, applies anytime you have two dissimliar metals together)

Make sure your zincs are in satisfactory condition, and use a stainless steel brush to clean off the oxidation before every trip.

[Duckenfuss]

Looks like I have a lotta work ahead of me!