Warmer days are finally here, which means you’ll soon be cruising through the water on your boat. However, you’ll first need to take it out of storage. By taking the right steps to prepare your boat for the season, you can ensure it runs smoothly from the start. The following are some initial tasks to add to your checklist. 

4 Steps to Take When Bringing Your Boat Out of Storage

1. Clean It Off

Your boat will need to be cleaned once you pull it out of storage. Thoroughly clear the dust from the surface and clean the sides with a power-washer. You should then vacuum the inside of the boat to clear any lingering dust, dirt, and insects. Keeping the outside clean will help your boat retain its appearance, so note if your boat needs a new finish or interior carpeting. 

2. Check for Physical Damage

Perform a thorough inspection of your boat’s physical condition. Check the propeller and hull for any dents or loose screws. You should also look at the hoses and belts to ensure they didn’t crack during the winter. Inspect the boat for corrosion as well, as this will only get worse over time. If you notice any issues, be sure to call a technician before you put your boat in the water. Any physical damage could lead to complications while the boat is running. 

3. Prep the Engine

Add new oil, power steering fluid, engine lubricant, and coolant to your boat’s engine. If you are comfortable doing so, check the condition of the spark plugs and battery. You can also run the engine to listen for any unusual sounds. Remember that if you don’t know the ins and outs of your boat’s engine, call a boat mechanic to help. They will perform a professional inspection of the engine so you know the boat is ready to run for the summer. 

4. Go Over the Safety Gear

If you stored your safety gear with your boat this winter, make sure that all of your life jackets are in quality condition and that they still fit your family. Be sure that you have a fire extinguisher, first aid kit, and functioning flares on the boat. Check that your radio and compass are working properly and that you have a map on board for emergencies. All of your safety gear should be in order before you take your boat on the water this season.

Looking for a safe place to store your boat in the offseason? Texarkana Storage and RV and Lakeside Mini Storage & RV provide state-of-the-art storage facilities for your valuables, boats, and RVs. From Atlanta to Texarkana, TX, these sister companies offer a wide variety of unit sizes at rates you can afford. Whether you are in need of short-term storage during a move or long-term storage for years, you can trust their 24/7 security measures. To learn more about available units, visit them online or call (903) 792-7867 today.