Spring brings the warm weather and the annual task of preparing your boat for another season of fun filled carefree boating. Some attention and maintenance now could prevent some aggravation and down time during the peak of the season.

The following checklist will serve as a basic guide for performing the annual preparation on an outboard powered boat and trailer.

GENERAL

• Do a general all around inspection and cleaning of the deck, hull and topside using a mild detergent.
• Inspect and clear scuppers, garboard drain, other drains and bilge pump discharge.
• Apply a coat of good quality marine wax.
• Clean and polish all metal.
• Clean and inspect canvas, covers and bimini top.
• Clean and inspect bilges and through hull fittings.
• Check all fittings secure.
• Lubricate all hinges, latches, etc with the best
  corrosion inhibiting lubricant you can buy.

HULL

• Check for abrasions, scratches, gouges, etc.,
  and repair them.
• Check and replace zincs as needed.
• Check swim platform and ladder.
• Check transducers, pitot and through hull fittings.

BELOW DECKS

• Check and lubricate seacocks.
• Check all hoses and clamps.
• Check bilge pump and float switch operation.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

• Check battery water level and recharge battery.
• Check terminals for corrosion, clean and lubricate.
• Discard wing nuts and use lock nuts and washers
  on terminals.
• Inspect all wiring for corrosion and insulation
  damage.  Clean, repair or replace.
• Test gauges and all electrical/electronic equipment
  for proper operation.  Check for spare fuses.
• Inspect antennas.

SAFETY EQUIPMENT AND TOOLS

• Sound signaling device such as whistle or horn.
• Distress signals - hand held flares, smoke, aerial
  flares, etc.  Check expiration dates.
• Check life jackets and throwable rings, cushions, etc.
• Check fire extinguishers and recharge/replace if needed.
• Check first aid kit and replace any used supplies.
• Check compass and navigation lights.
• Check onboard toolbox to ensure the tools you may
  need are in it and stay there throughout the season.

ENGINES / FUEL SYSTEMS

• Change engine fuel filter and filter/ water separator element.
• Check and change engine zincs.
• Replace spark plugs.
• Check plug wires for wear and cracks.
• Change and fill lower unit gear lube.
• Inspect fuel lines, primer bulb and connections for leaks.
• Lubricate and spray all moveable parts.
• Check prop for dings and bends.
• Check steering and control cables or power steering system and fluid.
• Check power trim and tilt system and fluid.
• Add a quality fuel stabilizer to the fuel tank.

TRAILER

• Pull wheels and inspect /repair brakes. Clean and
  inspect or replace wheel bearings.
  Repack bearings and hubs.
• Check rollers and pads.
• Clean, inspect and lubricate winch.
• Lubricate tongue jack and wheel.
• Test and repair all running lights.
• Check tires, check pressure and condition.
• Check safety chains and coupler condition.