Hardly anything equals the thrill and pride of getting a new boat. Every surface gleams, silky-smooth to your touch. It’s spotless, top to bottom. Chrome, gelcoat, varnished wood, upholstery -- it’s all perfect. When it’s time to start ‘er up, the engine leaps into action and purrs like a cat. You want it to stay that way forever.
The good news is that you can keep your vessel in like-new condition for a long time. It’s all about routine maintenance. Investing in diligent, consistent maintenance will keep your boat’s function and appearance at the top of its game. The payoff: a beautiful, reliable craft with best-in-class resale value.
Relying on a checklist is the best way to make sure you don’t overlook anything. Here’s some info on how to use a checklist to ensure that your maintenance program covers every aspect of your vessel, from bow to stern. Whether you are a DIY (do it yourself) type, or you want to put our excellent repair division in charge, Clark Marine Sales is here to help keep your boat in pristine condition all year round. We’re in Franklin, Tennessee, near Nashville.
Observe the Guidelines in Your Owner’s Manual
Every new boat comes with an Owner’s Manual. Read and obey! If you bought your boat used, you can probably find the manual online. While there are standard intervals for many aspects of boat maintenance, you should prioritize the directives from your manual.
If there is an excellent checklist in your manual, you are good to go! Simply keep up on it and you’ll always be on top of your boat’s needs. If not, you should make and follow your own checklist.
Make Your Own Checklist
If the manufacturer’s checklist doesn’t cover everything, make your own checklist. There are plenty available online to start with. A good checklist should state the interval of each task:
- Every outing
- Every 20 hours
- Every 50 hours
- Every 100 hours
- Every layup
The checklist should break the tasks down by category, such as:
- Steering system
- Engine and drive
- Interior
- Hull
- Tops
- Hardware
- Safety gear
- Trailer
We suggest you find a checklist you like, then customize it to your taste. Use it for a season, and take notes on what’s missing. Revise it for the next season. If you notice anything being overlooked, make sure you get it on the list. Before long, it will be your perfect guide to taking good care of your boat.
Hand It Off to the Pros
If you’re not the DIY type, let the professionals take care of it! Our service department at Clark Marine Sales is proud to offer a personal level of service seldom seen in our industry. Our techs are certified and experienced, and they’re committed to continuous education and improvement by attending engine service schools and online classes.
Here at Clark Marine Sales, we genuinely love boats. Let us help you keep them at their reliable, shiny best. Find us in Franklin, Tennessee, near Nashville.