Whether you own a cruising vessel or a sportfishing boat, keeping it in top shape is important. To do this, you need to keep up with engine servicing and maintenance. Performing these simple tasks will help your engine run better and last longer. Besides, doing them right will save you money and aggravation down the road.
Some things that you should do on a regular basis are checking the oil level, inspecting the engine belts, and topping off any fluids that need it. In addition to these regular checks, you may want to inspect the engine compartment for signs of damage. When checking the compartment, look for loose or missing electrical connections. If you notice any unusual sounds, consider calling a professional to come check out your engine.
The best way to find out when and how often to perform maintenance is to follow your engine manufacturer’s maintenance schedule. This may include a schedule for the various parts of the engine. It will also give you a good idea of how often you should change the oil. A marine engine will need a full service every few hundred hours of use. Depending on your engine model, you may also need to flush the cooling system with antifreeze to prevent freezing.
If you own a diesel engine, you’ll need to do some special maintenance. Your engine’s water pump, cylinder heads, and spark plugs will all need to be retorqued after a certain number of operating hours. Another thing you might want to do is check the watertight seals on your engine’s cooling and exhaust systems.
If you’re on a tight budget, you can save on some of the more expensive items on your maintenance list. For example, you may be able to find a maintenance-free battery. However, this doesn’t mean that you won’t need to clean it, replace the electrolyte and check for leaks.
A yearly inspection of the battery is a good place to start. You’ll want to see if there are any cracks or other damage. Likewise, you should test the voltage to ensure that it is working. Additionally, you’ll need to check the temperature of the battery so that it won’t overheat.
One of the more fun and easy maintenance procedures is changing the oil. Most manufacturers recommend that you change your engine’s oil every 250 to 300 hours. Changing your oil is a great idea because it will help to increase engine life. You can even install a 10-micron water-separating fuel filter between your fuel tank and your engine.
If you’re looking to do some boat maintenance yourself, you’ll want to check out your owner’s manual. These are a great resource and will show you what to do with your engine and what to avoid. Check out your local marine engine dealer to find out what they recommend for your engine. You may also want to have a professional inspect your engine’s water pump, compression tests, and check for watertight seals
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