The Lymington Directory June July 2018

OUT ON THE WATER
10
Whether you have a petrol or outboard powered craft, or a diesel inboard boat, below are
listed a few essential checks to help you get back on the water this season
Fuel: Petrol
Petrol will go stale so fill up your Fuel tank to
dilute any existing fuel.
Replace any canister fuel filters or clean out
any water traps or washable fuel filters.
Replace or clean spark plugs, especially if the
engine has been “fogged” before winter
storage.
Prime the fuel system and recheck the water
traps (condensation in fuel tanks over winter
months can create a surprising amount of
water in fuel tanks.)
Add fuel conditioner to your tanks – a well
worth investment, especially when today’s
petrol contains 10% ethanol.
Fuel: Diesel
Same as above with the filters etc.
Add a biocide and water absorber to prevent
“bug” in the tank.
Bleed fuel through to eliminate air in fuel
system.
Ignition system, Electrical contact points &
Air Filters
Most petrol ignition systems are now modern
style CDI or TCI that require little
maintenance, but if you have an old distributor
style system the points will need cleaning
etc.
Batteries should be on trickle charge, and
stored off the floor in a warm environment
during the winter months. Recharge, check
the fluids and when battery terminals are
refitted, make sure the contacts are clean
and then lubricated with Vaseline or similar.
Check all domestic fuse boxes or exposed
connections, and check vital electrical items
such as bilge pumps, navigation lights etc. A
systems check on VHF and GPS would also be
recommended.
Replace or at least check air filters. Don’t
forget to remove the rag you may have
stuffed up the air intake or the bag sealing
the exhaust!
Steering & Controls, Gear Boxes & Propellers
Check to see if the steering system works freely
before you attempt to launch at the slipway.
Likewise run & test the outboard or stern drive
engine before launching and check the operation
of throttle & gear shift. Nothing more
embarrassing than launching and finding you’re
stuck at high revs in reverse!!
On Outboards & Sterndrives, change the gear oil if
not already done - an absolute must especially if
the boat is staying in the water.
Likewise, check anodes on both the cavitation
plate, and prop shaft or engine bracket assembly.
Anti foul with suitable coating if required.
Check out the propeller, re-flare the blades if
required, and if possible, remove prop and grease
the shaft. On smaller engines with shear pins
check to see if you have spares!
If you trailer a boat, then always check the wheel
bearings before setting off and lubricate – better
safe than sorry.
Likewise trailer brakes and lighting boards also
require a quick check.
Before you launch, ensure all drain bungs are
refitted, sea cocks are turned off and your
mooring warps, fenders and anchor is on board
ready to use.
If you are leaving your boat on a mooring during
the summer months, then an appropriate
anti-foul applied to the hull will prevent foul build
up and subsequent poor performance.
It is also good practise to check the expiry date of
flares, lifejackets and service dates on life-rafts
and please, please, please wear your kill cord at all
times.
There will be other items that will need checking
so always consult the professionals if unsure.
Paul Martin, BHG Marine
info@lymingtondirectory.co.uk 01590 643969 www.lymingtondirectory.co.uk