Whether used for pleasure cruises or fishing trips, boats can be an excellent investment. But, like many other vehicles, these watercraft are subject to wear and tear. That’s why Sutter’s Canandaigua Marina urges all boat owners to follow a strong maintenance routine. To help you keep your investment in good shape, this Canandaigua, NY, boat dealer highlights tasks that no captain should ignore.

Boat Maintenance That Should Never Be Forgotten

1. Washing

If you want to keep your craft looking as fresh as it did the day you bought it from the boat dealer, you must clean it inside and out with every use. In addition to preserving the look of the vehicle, routine cleaning will remove dirt, moisture, and salt residue that could cause corrosive damage.

2. Oil Changes

While the requirements can change from model to model, boat owners should generally change the motor oil after every 100 hours of use. Doing so will ensure that the engine remains properly lubricated and all mechanical components can operate smoothly. If you operate the engine with dirty oil, you may end up causing extensive damage to internal parts and impairing the craft’s overall performance.

3. Propeller Inspection

Motor propellers are subject to damage — such as dents — that can cause fuel inefficiency and several operational problems. To avoid these problems, always remove and inspect the propeller before lubricating and tightly reattaching the part. If any major problems are present, have them fixed by a boat repair specialist.

4. Battery Testing

In the event that the battery fails out on the water, you may lose essential functions of your boat that could put you in danger. Even if the engine can fire-up fine, the battery may not have the right fluid levels to power the craft during your trip. That’s why you should always make sure the vehicle’s battery is fully charged and contains properly balanced fluids before heading out.

5. Motor Flushing

Once you dock your boat or bring it out of the water, flush the motor. This process takes just a few minutes and helps clean salt, dirt, and debris from the engine. Without flushing, inboard and outboard motors can experience corrosion, temperature control issues, and other mechanical problems.

While proper upkeep is necessary for a boat to lead a long and powerful life, there may still be times when your watercraft encounters problems. In these situations, the mechanics at Sutter’s Canandaigua Marina offer comprehensive boat repair services that will provide you with peace of mind next time you hit the water. If repairs aren’t enough, this boat dealer also sells various new and pre-owned models at competitive rates. To learn more about their products and services, visit this Canandaigua boating team online or call (585) 394-0918.