Spring Maintenance: Getting Your Boat Ready for Warm Weather

Boating season is around the corner, and if you’re a boat owner, you’re starting to feel excited for time out on the water. Before you put your boat in the water, it’s important to make sure it is ready for the sunshine and good times. Proper maintenance and a thorough boat inspection not only guarantee your boat runs smoothly but also ensure boater safety and improves your boat’s lifespan.   

Inspect and Clean the Boat – Interior and Exterior  

The first step to getting on the water is a thorough inspection of your boat. Check for any wear and tear or damage to the interior and exterior that should be addressed.   

Exterior: Look over the hull, checking for cracks, chips, or signs of corrosion, especially if your boat has been in the water all winter. If there is salt or algae buildup, clean it off. Consider applying a wax coating for extra protection if you have a fiberglass hull.   

Interior: Inspect the upholstery for mold, mildew, or water damage. Wipe it down and tidy up the rest of the boat by removing any debris that may have collected in compartments, lockers, or storage areas.   

Permits and Licensing   

Don’t even think about heading out on the water without your boating season prep paperwork in order, especially your boat registration and inspection! Make sure boat registration is up to date and that all required permits and licenses are ready for use. Renew environmental compliance documents as well and get familiar with them-many Minnesota lakes have unique regulations about waste disposal, speed limits, and wildlife protection.  

Keeping your boat registration, licenses, permits, and environmental compliance documents current will prevent fines and problems on the water.   

Engine Service, Electrical System, and Controls  

Conducting a thorough boat inspection is important before you get out on the water. Give your boat a tune-up before setting sail to ensure proper performance and boat safety.  

Engine: Change your oil and perform engine services as needed. Look over the fuel system and check for leaks and blockages-you can even replace fuel filters if need be. If anything needs replacing, send a parts request to Westre’s Marine. 

Battery: A battery check is important, as over time they can lose charge or corrode, especially after a long winter of inactivity. Carefully clean the terminals and test the battery’s charge before you go out on the water.   

Electrical System: Examine the electrical system, including lights, switches, and wiring to make sure everything is working as it should. Be aware of any fraying or wear as that could be a sign your boat has an electrical issue.   

Controls: The throttle and engine controls need to be checked before you take your boat out on the water. Be vigilant in maintaining your boat’s controls, as malfunctioning controls can cause serious safety issues when boating.   

From time to time, even the most experienced boat owners need a little help getting ready for the warmer seasons. That’s why it’s smart to collaborate with a trusted marine dealership for professional service and boat safety. A professional dealership can service your engine, provide safety inspections, and address large repair jobs outside your comfort zone.  

Boating season is around the corner, so don’t delay in finding a marine dealership that can walk you through boating season prep. Even if you’re not buying a boat for a while, our team can walk you through the ins and outs of owning a boat, so you aren’t blindsided when you run into any issues.  

Westre’s Marine wants your boat to stay in superior condition for years to come, which is why we provide expert service, engine service, boat inspections, quality parts, and masterful boating advice. Get your boat in top shape with Westre’s Marine.