Boat maintenance Check List

2:11 AM Wed 24 Dec 2008 GMT

Marine Safety Victoria Click Here to view large photo

Did you know around 82% of all boating incidents reported last year were due to boats breaking down on the water? Maintenance doesn't have to be a chore - get into the routine and maintain your boat. Marine Safety Victoria has put together a Vessel Maintenance Check List.

Check your motor:
Manufacturers usually recommend a service by a specialised workshop at least once a year, even if the motor is hardly used. This ensures vital internal parts, such as the water pump is checked. If your motor is used regularly, you should change your gear-box oil every three months.

* Replace your pull cord if it fraying
* Check all wiring
* Clean spark-plugs, check gap or replace
* Check compression
* Lubricate all moving parts
* Check and re-fill gear case oil
* Clean cooling system passages
* Check propeller and nut - sand or file any small cracks

Check your fuel:
* Always replace old fuel - never go out with fuel which is more than six months old
* Make sure you have enough fuel for the trip - 1/3 out, 1/3 back and 1/3 in reserve
* Clean your fuel tank at least once a year with a suitable solvent and dispose of old fuel responsibly
* Inspect the fuel tank for cracks or corrosion
* Always replace old fuel after periods of inactivity
* Inspect fuel lines, manual priming bulb and connections for cracks and leaks
* Clean out or replace fuel filter
* For fuel disposal please make contact with your local council for details

Check your batteries:
* Top up battery cells with distilled water and check each cell with a hydrometer
* The battery should be charged at a rate that is suitable to the battery and should never be over-charged.
* Batteries should be secured in brackets
* Battery terminals, cables and casing should be kept clean
* Grease terminals regularly
* Test all equipment that uses the battery

Check your boat structure:
* Clean and paint your boat regularly
* Inspect boat for corrosion and cracks
* Ensure all bungs are suitable and in good condition
* Check for water and fuel leaks
* Check and grease drain flaps
* Ensure bilges are clean and dry
* Test steering for stiffness - oil cable with the correct lubricant

We also recommend keeping the following items on board:
* Engine manual
* Flywheel pull rope
* Spare 'O' rings for fuel connector
* New spark-plugs
* A spark-plug spanner (or diesel injector spanner)
* Ratchet with extender and shifting spanner
* Spare fuses, bung and shackle
* A sharp knife, pliers and screwdrivers
* Spare propeller nut, washer, split pins and socket for propeller nut
* Steel wool to clean battery terminals
* De-watering spray (RP7 or similar)
* Spare oil and funnel
* Spare key and stop harness (kill switch lanyard)

www.marinesafety.vic.gov.au