DID YOU KNOW:
...That as exciting as it is that boating season is here...before you run off to the launch ramp there is an important list of maintenance and inspection details you MUST check? Nothing will ruin a boat outing faster than never making it to the launch ramp. We’re about to ask our favorite tow vehicle to wake up from its winter sleep and go back to work and to that, and to be fair to the vehicle, we need to invest a little loving its way.
Let’s start with challenge one: HEAT. A tow vehicle’s engine is about to work a lot harder than it likely did all winter, and it’s going to do it in much hotter weather. Flushing the cooling system, or at the very least topping it off with fresh coolant is a solid investment. Brake fluid, again is about to stop a lot more weight and the boiling point of brake fluid goes down every month. Flushing, or at least topping off with new brake fluid ensures you get to the bottom of a steep grade with brakes. Tires, sidewall and tread condition is critical when towing. Check for for cracks and low tread depth; a blow out while towing can get very dangerous very quickly. Be sure you have a small jack and lug wrench for the trailer and ALWAYS tow with a spare tire.
As for the boat, that one is up to you but remember today’s gasoline not only rots fuel hoses from the inside, it goes stale within a few weeks. Fresh gas is the key to a smooth and reliable engine. Batteries, in both the boat and if you have a handheld radio are important to check.
DRAIN PLUG...ENOUGH SAID. Some form of water removal system (bailing), either automatic or hand operated, is important and may save your bottom someday; check for operation.
Outdrives have bellows that rot and leak over time; check them before you launch. Lube accelerator and shifting cables and check steering cables for smooth operation. Mostly, after investing a little time before the first outing, have fun and a safe trip.
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