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Spring Commissioning

Spring Commissioning – what is it? The winter is over, warm weather and sunshine are filling our days and all we can think about is getting the boat out of storage and into the water. However, being a boat owner, you’re well aware of the many preparations that must be done first. Enter the term “Spring Commissioning”, it sounds simple enough but there’s actually quite a bit that goes into preparing a boat for the new boating season. Of course, each boat will have varying needs, but in general the basic checklist is as follows:

  • Reinstall and fully charge batteries – these should have been removed during the winterization process at the end of last boating season.
  • Seacocks – open them and make sure the hoses and clamps are in good condition.
  • Water Pump Impeller – if this was removed during the fall, replace it. If it wasn’t removed, inspect it for wear.
  • Inspect steering system and control cables – lubricate if necessary.
  • Oil, fuel filter/water separator – If this wasn’t done during winterization, then change the oil and replace the fuel filter.
  • Remove antifreeze – part of the winterization process is to fill the engines and waterlines with antifreeze. This will have to be flushed out.
  • Sea Strainers – these will need to be removed and cleaned thoroughly to get rid of any debris that could cause clogging and lead to overheating or other problems.
  • Inspect Props – make sure cotter pins are secure and inspect for any damage or distortion.
  • Water heater – this was most likely bypassed during winterization and needs to be un- bypassed.
  • Inspect for oil and water leaks.
  • Check A/C to be sure it’s running properly.
  • Start and run the engines, bringing them up to operating temperature. Inspect gauges and make sure everything is running smoothly.
  • Zincs – inspect them for deterioration. If they are deteriorated to half their original size they need to be replaced.
  • Pump the Bilge – add bilge cleaner to remove any sludge or oil residues then pump the bilge dry.
  • Electrical connections – inspect for any corrosion.
  • Inspect the hull for blisters or stress cracks – now is also an opportune time to do any needed sanding and bottom painting. Some bottom paints last a few years while others need to be repainted annually.
  • Inspect rubber Outdrive Bellows – check for cracks, dryness and/or deterioration. Replace accordingly.
  • Check Power Steering and Power Trim oil levels.
  • Reconnect Electronics – most likely you disconnected antennas, depth finders, transducers, etc. upon winterization.
  • Lights – cabin, cockpit and navigation lights should be inspected and bulbs replaced as needed.

As mentioned above, every boat’s needs are different and this list is not exhaustive. Taking care of these things prior to spring launch will be beneficial in helping to provide a smooth and hopefully problem-free boating season. While not all problems can be avoided, they can be cut back dramatically by taking some extra time in the beginning of the season.

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