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20
Jan
2020
It may seem bizarre at this time to be thinking about getting ready for the 2020 season but the start of Spring is just six weeks away. What we attempt to do here is offer some thoughts around making sure that first trip out on the water is memorable because its pleasurable rather than a nightmare.
First things first. Is the battery fully charged? The cold weather combined with inactivity is a recipe for losing charge. Of course it would have been best should the battery be taken off your boat, put in a nice warm garage or shed and placed on a trickle charge. If this isn’t the case now is the time to ensure it will be fully functional for the forthcoming season. One further note, if the battery is of a sealed nature (and most leisure ones are), and has suffered total loss of charge it is worthwhile ensuring it continues to hold the charge. This style of battery is prone to failing even over a short period in this instance and should be re-placed.
The next item for checking is that all the fluids are at the correct levels and all connections/terminals have no corrosion. The steering and other cables are free and move sufficiently.
So once all these boxes have been ticked now is a good time to check the engine starts. If fuel (petrol) has been left in the tank for a prolonged period it may be necessary to add a stabiliser.
OK, we are at a stage that once the boat is on the water the engine ready to go but is the hull? All the bungs/draining tools functioning? Is there no perishing of rubber, are the anodes fit for purpose and does the bilge pump operate? Are all distress flares in date and electronics function as the should?
Ready to go? One final thought, is the trailer still fit for purpose, wheel bearing and brakes function as they should and lighting set work legally.
There is no substitute for having all of this looked over professionally of course. Here at Cambrian Boats we are more than happy to provide you with a comprehensive service.
Happy and safe 2020 boating.