Anyone who has done any boating knows, that the measure of enjoyment out on the water, is directly proportionate to the dependability of the boat.  No one likes it when their boat lets them down.  So, you have a new boat, and you want to keep it looking and performing just like new.  Well, just how best can that be done?  I am sure there are many ways, but in this section I am going to pass along our recommendations, which we have found to be very effective in extending the life, and improving the resale value of your boat.

1.      DO A BASIC CHECK:

A.   Make sure the drain plug or plugs are in.

B.   Check the engine and transmission oil levels.

C.   Inspect the belts

D.   Look for any obvious oil in the bilge.

E.   If so equipped, look at the water filter.

2.      PROTECT IT FROM THE ELEMENTS:

      Take two sheets of paper towel, folded to about hand-size, and spray “303” or equivalent upholstery UV protection product onto it.  Rub the spray over all  vinyl areas before going out on the water.  This will protect the materials from Sun, soft drinks, snacks, mud and anything else that might stain.

3.      READY THE ENGINE: 

A.  Before starting the engine, either open the engine cover, or turn on the
      bilge blower to remove any lingering fuel vapors. 

B.     Then, go ahead and start it up, making sure not to rev the engine.  Let it idle on its own. Allow it time to gradually warm up.  Compare this warm-up process to waking up in the morning---You don’t jump out of bed and go to work immediately, neither should your motor.  This warm-up cycle circulates oil throughout the block, thus, preventing damage.

C.    After your engine warms up, take a quick glance at all of the gauges. Make sure all appear within the normal range.

D.    Always make sure you feel the transmission go into gear solidly before accelerating.

4.       PUTTING TO BED AT THE END OF THE DAY:

 A.  At the end of your cruising or skiing session, take time to dry your boat.
      You wouldn’t put a wet horse in the barn after a long day’s run without
       first drying her off.  There is a synthetic chamois available called a water
       sprite. These are much easier to wring out than the traditional chamois,
       even kids can handle them.  They make the job of drying, quick and
       easy, and they do an excellent job of preventing water spots from
       forming on the hull and upholstery.

B.     Remove the drain plug or plugs to let any unwanted water out.  Be sure
      to place the plug/plugs in a spot you will remember next time out. 

C.   If at all possible, cover your boat with a custom canvas cover.

            5.   GENERAL PRECAUTIONS:

      A.  While out skiing, be careful transferring the equipment from one location
            to another. Do not drag fins or any sharp edges across the upholstery or
            fiberglass. 

      B.  About every four months, or more frequent, if necessary, wash the boat
          using a good cleaning product and then follow up with a good coat of
           wax on all  fiberglass surfaces.  We recommend Blue Coral Car Wash to
           clean, and Meguire’s #26 (or equivalent) to protect.

We think you will find these procedures will extend the life of your boat and improve its resale value in the future. 

Please feel free to e-mail, fax, or call us with any questions you may have about your boat.  We would like to make your boating experience more fun for the entire family.