When the weather gets warm, the urge to get your boat on the water is irresistable - we get it!  However, it is really important that before you hit the water, you conduct a thorough inspection of your vessel to make sure it is in good working condition.  Taking the time to go through this examination could save you a lot more time (and money!) down the road. 

Discover Boating has compiled a terrific spring launch checklist, and we've added a few of our own suggestions as well.  Once you've conducted all of the steps below and addressed any issues that you find, your boat should be ready to get into the water.

Checking the Fuel System

Making sure your boat's fuel system is in good working order isn't just about the boat's performance - it's also a safety issue.  You'll want to eliminate any potential leaks of fluids or gases prior to operating your vessel.

  • Inspect the fuel system for leaks or damage and be sure to pay special attention to fuel hoses, connections and tank surfaces.
  • Evidence of a damaged fuel hose includes softness, brittleness or cracking. If you observe any of these characteristics on your fuel hose, replace it ASAP. The same goes for your primer bulb.
  • Replace components when necessary and verify all fittings and clamps are properly secured.
  • Ensure the engine, exhaust and ventilation systems are all functioning properly.
  • Look before you pump. Don’t fill your tank with fuel that contains more than 10% ethanol (E10) as it will damage your engine.  We also recommend using a fuel stabilizer to help combat the effects of ethanol.

Checking the Electrical System

As you look over the electrical system on your boat, you should be most concerned with making sure all connections are secure and free of corrosion.  The most common electrical failures on boats are related to connection issues.

  • Inspect all electrical connections for clean, tight, corrosion free connections. Corroded connections can be dangerous.
  • Remove corroded terminals and use a wire brush to clean them, along with all cable ends.
  • Charge your battery and have it tested to ensure it can hold a charge.  A multimeter is a great tool to check that various connections and devices are receiving electricity from the battery.
  • Electrical systems should be regularly inspected by a qualified technician.  We strongly recommend using a technician who is ABYC-certified in electrical systems to perform any inspections or repairs.

Checking Propellers & the Hull

Perform a thorough walkaround on your boat, checking the external hull and propeller.  All surfaces should look clean and free of corrosion, pitting, cracks and other blemishes.  

  • Inspect propellers for dings, pitting, cracks and distortion. If you need to replace your propeller, we recommend an interchangeable hub design for easy maintenance and upgrades in the future.
  • Damaged propellers can cause unwanted vibration and damage to your drive train.
  • Make sure the propeller is secured properly, and replace bearings when needed. You may find the use of a prop wrench helpful in removing a propeller from the shaft.
  • When inspecting the hull, look for blisters, distortions and cracks. Be sure to clean the hull, deck, and topsides using an environmentally safe cleaning solution.
  • Also, make sure the drain plug is securely in place before every launch.

Checking Engine Belts, Cables & Hoses

Make sure to take a quick look at your boat's engine(s).  Ensure that belts and cables are in good condition, and make sure all hose connections are secure.  This will help to ensure your engine stays in good working condition throughout its use.

  • Check belts, cables and hoses because they can become brittle and may crack during winter storage.
  • Belts should fit tightly around pulleys to prevent slipping.
  • A worn belt may leave a black residue near the pulley and will fit loosely.
  • Cracks or swells on the outer jacket of throttle, shift and steering cables may be of internal corrosion and immanent failure.  Control cables are usually measured from end to end, but steering cables aren't, so make sure you know how to properlymeasure steering cables if you plan to replace them!

Checking Fluid Levels

Similar to routine checks of the fluid levels in your car, you'll also want to check levels on your boat's engine, too. You'll also want to conduct oil changes on a regular basis just like you would any other motor.

Checking Your Safety Gear

The most critical thing about boating is that you want to ensure your safety and the safety of those onboard your vessel.  Make sure you are diligent about having all of the necessary safety equipment on hand and easily accessible.

  • Check your life jackets to ensure they are in good condition and that there are enough on board for all potential passengers.
  • Ensure that each individual has the correct size life jacket for their body weight.
  • Be sure all onboard fire extinguishers are the correct class for your vessel, and are fully charged and stowed in the proper place.
  • For any enclosed or semi-enclosed area, ensure you have at least one properly installed and working carbon monoxide detector
  • Consider an EPIRB for situations of distress to ensure you can be found
  • Take advantage of any safety inspections offered by the US Coast Guard (USCG), USCG Auxiliary or US Power Squadrons.

If you've got any questions about how to properly prepare your boat for the first launch of the season, just call our ABYC-certified experts at (866) 388-0390.