6 handy tips prior to launching

Have you got your boat into the water yet? How is the boat’s engine doing? Here we offer 6 handy tips for a smooth and safe start to the boating season.

1. Check the anodes before launching
   Check the engine’s anodes and replace them if necessary, to ensure the most effective corrosion protection possible. Anodes come in lots of different shapes and sizes, so make sure you get the right ones for your particular engine. Not sure which type to use or where the anodes are located in your specific engine? Consult the user manual or contact a professional mechanic.
   
   
2. Check the engine’s rubber parts and replace as necessary
   Check that the impeller is intact. Using a cracked or worn impeller can cause the engine to overheat, which in turn can cause serious damage to the engine.
   
   Inspect the engine’s bellows to ensure they are flexible and pliable, and do not leave openings where water can penetrate.
   
   Check all the engine’s belts for signs of wear, such as cracking, chipping or shiny surfaces. A broken or worn belt can cause serious engine problems.
   
   
3. Check the belt tension
   Check that the belt tension is correct and that there is no abnormal noise coming from the belts or pulleys. Loosen the belt tensioner slightly and turn a full revolution by hand. Listen to the sound of the bearings to make sure they are not seizing. Don’t forget to tighten the tensioner again. Incorrect tension can lead to premature wear or malfunctions in the systems driven by the belts.
   
   
4. Check all fluids
   It is always important to check and look after the fluids in your engine, to ensure it works properly and lasts for a long time. This is particularly important prior to launching. Below are the most important fluids to keep an eye on:
   
   Engine oil
   Check the level and quality of the oil. Change the engine oil and oil filter according to the manufacturer’s recommendations or at least once a season. This should be done either in connection with lifting the boat out of the water or prior to launching.
   
   Coolant (for inboard engines with closed cooling systems)
   Make sure the coolant level is correct, that the coolant is in good condition and that it is clean and free from blockages. Replace the coolant if necessary.
   
   Gear oil
   Check the level and condition of the gear oil and look for any leaks, ideally using a pressure and vacuum tester. By creating a slight vacuum inside the gear, you can see if water is leaking into the gear. By creating a slight overpressure instead, you can see if the gear is leaking oil.
   
   Hydraulic oil (for hydraulic steering or trim systems)
   Check the level and make sure there are no leaks in the system. Change or top up the hydraulic oil as needed.
   
   Gearbox oil (for outboard engines)
   Check for the ingress of water and metal particles. Replace if necessary.
   
   Fuel
   Check how old and fresh the fuel is, especially if the boat has not been used for a while. Also check the tank, pipes and filters, and look for any leaks.
   
   
5. Battery
   Make sure the battery is charged and that all connections are secure.
   
   
6. Inspect the propeller
   Inspect the propeller to ensure it is in good condition and working efficiently. For example, check for wear around the edges of the blades, look for cracks and rust, and check that the propeller is properly balanced. An imbalanced propeller produces vibrations that can both affect the boat’s performance and damage the engine.
   
   Enjoy the summer
   We hope you have a wonderful boating season, and that both your boat and your engine run smoothly during your adventures out on the water. Don’t forget to relax, enjoy the summer and look after yourself!