Getting your boat ready for summer

It’s almost time, the sailing season is about to start!

Our team can’t wait to get out on the water. To ensure a carefree sailing season, a summer check is, of course, essential. By following the steps in our summer check, you’ll know your vessel is completely ready for a fantastic year of sailing.

When do you get your boat ready for summer?
You get your boat ready before the sailing season begins. Most boat owners get their boat ready for summer in March.

In this article, you’ll find the 4 steps to get your boat ready for summer, the necessary products, and all information in pdf format so you can easily keep it. Ready? Let’s get started!

• 1. The engine
• 2. Hull, deck and rudder
• 3. Gas & Electricity
• 4. Navigation & Safety
• 5. Required products
• 6. Download the manual

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1. The engine

As your boat has been stationary for a number of months, it’s important to check the engine. If you have winterised the boat, a brief check is sufficient.

SUPPLIES:

• Fuel filters
• Engine oil
• V-belts
• Coolant
• Impeller

DURATION:
About 30 minutes

STEP 1:
First, check that the area around the engine is clean and dry. There should be absolutely no visible oil or water leaks. Also, check the pipes for this immediately. Don’t forget to check all the hoses for any signs of cracking.

STEP 2:
Replace the fuel filters and take a few spares with you for the journey.

STEP 3:
Change the engine oil if this hasn’t been done before winter.

STEP 4:
Check the V-belts and adjust their tension. If you can’t turn them more than a quarter turn between your thumb and forefinger, they are tight enough. Are the V-belts worn? Replace them then, to prevent you from breaking down in the middle of the water. Also ensure you have a spare on board, should it be necessary to replace the belts during the season.

STEP 5:
Check the coolant, oil level and battery.

STEP 6:
Start the engine and check that the water is being drawn in and circulating correctly.

STEP 7:
Check the impeller, replace it if necessary and carry a spare impeller with you for the journey.

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2. Hull, deck and rudder

Now it’s time to check the hull, the propeller shaft and the tarpaulin.

SUPPLIES:

• Antifouling
• Anodes
• Grease
• Tarpaulin cleaning supplies

DURATION:
About one hour (excluding antifouling application)

STEP 1:
antifouling is essential for extending the lifespan of your boat and preventing high fuel consumption caused by growth. Check the underside of the boat and apply a new coat of antifouling if necessary. Is your boat in saltwater? Then you’ll need to apply a new coat of antifouling sooner than if your boat is in freshwater.

STEP 2:
Check for play in the outer bearing by moving the propeller shaft at a right angle to the direction of rotation. The play should be a maximum of 0.50 to 1 mm. In any case, it is important that it does not rattle and turns smoothly.

STEP 3:
The anodes on your vessel can degrade significantly within a year. Check if they need replacing to prevent damage to other metal components. Replace an anode when more than +/- 60% of its original mass has worn away. For freshwater boating, you need an aluminium anode; for saltwater boating, fit zinc anodes to the hull. Are the sensitive parts on your aluminium-hulled vessel still suffering
from corrosion? If so, fit magnesium anodes. Be aware, these can corrode faster than usual! If your vessel is in brackish water, aluminium is the best choice.

STEP 4:
Have algae, mussels, and barnacles grown on the propeller shaft? Sand or paint them to prevent a reduction in drive efficiency. Also, check if there is too much play in the propeller shaft. For a greased propeller shaft, check if the outer gland is lubricated by grease. If not? Then there can be two causes
for this: you are using too little grease or the clearance on the propeller shaft is too large, causing grease to leak away too quickly. If you have used too little grease, this is of course easily solved by greasing more and more regularly. Is there too much clearance on the propeller shaft? Then contact us so we can provide a suitable solution.

STEP 5:
Before launching, the sterntube and propeller shaft can be greased and checked. Some types have a special grease nipple, others need to be dismantled. Top Tip! When launching, the sterntube needs to be properly vented, otherwise it will run dry. By squeezing and deforming it, you can create an opening for the air to escape.

STEP 6:
With good maintenance, a tarpaulin can last for years. Clean the tarpaulin and check all zips, straps, and seams. Take your tarpaulin to a specialist for any repairs.

STEP 7:
Check the condition of the ropes and ensure all necessary lines are on board. Are there any dirty ropes? If so, wash them in the washing machine at 30 degrees. Frayed ends of ropes should be sealed with a flame to prevent further fraying.

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3. Gas & Electricity

Checking the gas and electricity connections is extremely important to prevent dangerous situations. Have the connections inspected by an accredited company; you can often find them at larger marinas.

SUPPLIES:

• Hose
• Vaseline spray

DURATION:
About 30 minutes

STEP 1:
Is the gas hose damaged? Always replace it then. Regardless, it’s important to replace the hose after five years, even if it still looks good. The year of manufacture is indicated on the hose.

STEP 2:
Check all electrical connections, the lights, and the plugs. Replace rusty plugs as they pose a fire hazard.

STEP 3:
Check the fluid level of the batteries if they have caps. You cannot check a sealed battery. If you are unsure about the condition of the battery, you can have it tested. A marina or car garage often has the right equipment. Clean the terminals and fasten them securely. Are the battery terminals turning green with corrosion (also known as cauliflower)? Then the battery is probably leaking at the terminals. In that case, replace the battery. Afterwards, lubricate the terminals with vaseline.

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4. Navigation & Safety

Lastly, it’s important that you check the navigation and safety. This way, you can head out onto the water with your boat worry-free. Enjoyment guaranteed!

SUPPLIES:

• Bike pump
• First aid kit parts

DURATION:
About 30 minutes

STEP 1:
Check that the nautical charts are still up-to-date. Ensure your compass, depth sounder, gps, and log are in good working order and that the relevant regulations are aboard your boat. Don’t forget to check if the speedometer wheel is loose.

STEP 2:
Are the life jackets in their designated place and still in good condition? Test the jackets by inflating them with a bicycle pump and checking for leaks. Do not do this by mouth, as moisture can get into the jacket. Life jackets used in recreational boating must be inspected every two years. The lifespan of inflatable life jackets is ten years. For an automatically inflatable vest, it is important to replace the gas cartridge and salt tablet after each use.

STEP 3:
Also take out the first-aid kit and replenish it if necessary. Check any flares, distress rockets, and fire extinguishers for their expiry dates.

5. Recommended products for preparing your boat for summer

6. Download the manual

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You have completed all the steps to get your boat ready for summer.

Please remember that the steps you take will vary from boat to boat. We have listed the necessary items to get your boat ready for summer so you can easily order them.

The AB Marine Service team wishes you a great sailing season!