Get your boat back in the water

Getting set to launch for the season

BOATYARDS that have been quiet all winter are now starting to see a flurry of activity, with owners keen to get their yachts and motor boats ready for launching for the 2017 season.

For many, fitting out work is left till the last minute so prioritising jobs and setting down a plan of action can be helpful. Check with the yard when they are starting to launch and book your slot – it is always good to have a deadline to work to!

If you are not carrying out work yourself then book the boat service professionals ASAP. This is their busiest time of year. If you are confident in tackling work yourself then get the overalls on and get cracking. Set your workload down, list alongside tools and materials required. Add an array of rags, silicone and grease, petroleum jelly, lubricating and penetrating oils, cleaning products, brushes, wet and dry sandpaper, rollers and tray, degreaser, rolls of tape, engine spares and treatments for your water and fuel tanks. It is often the best idea to work from the outside in so that if you run out of time to launch any work required inside can be done on the water.

Hull and Topsides

Old antifouling can be really difficult to remove, but if it has built up in thickness then it is a job needing done. A variety of scrapers are available but care needs to be taken not to damage the gelcoat. Hard work will ensure a smooth surface for re-application.

Inspect the keel and keelboats for signs of rusting or pitting and wear at the keel to hull joint that may be more evident after winter layup. If anything looks suspect, ask the experts. If there’s a lot of pitting on the keel it may need taken back to bare metal and an epoxy protective coating applied.

Look at the rudder and any skeg fitments as well as the propeller. Check for any play in bearings, stock or quadrant. Make sure the bonding wires from the anode are sound and replace the anode if necessary. Grease shaft, steering cables and the log’s paddle wheel.

Choice of anti-fouling will depend on boat type, use and where it is kept – there is a wide range of products from powerboat finishes to racing and cruising coatings and upgrades to products.

A chat with your local chandler or yard manager to see what suits best can pay dividends.

Apply according to instructions with a stronger build-up in high impact areas - the leading edge of the keel and skeg and the keel to hull joint. A long handled radiator roller can be a good option to give a smooth finish with a paint brush to reach the more inaccessible points. Some paints are one-coat and others require more applications. If the boat is launched by the yard, leave some antifouling for painting the keel and cradle support points before the boat takes to the water.

Topsides and deck will require a thorough clean and repair to any problem areas and it is probably better to do this before applying the hull anti-fouling below. Apply a protective wax and polish well to keep the boat looking pristine throughout the season - an extensive range of products is on offer for all requirements. Again – your local chandler will advise on the best for your boat.

Engines Fuel Tanks and Gas System

The powerhouse of the vessel requires good maintenance. Both inboards and outboards need serviced. This is most often done by a professional, whether at the yard or by an independent engineer.

If doing on your own, renew oil, filters, anodes and check exhaust fitments. Check impellers and engine belt tension and that mounts are secure as well as the underside of the shaft – re bed if

any leaks are apparent. Keep spares of everything you think you may need.

With sail-drives the oil level and gaiter seal must be checked as well as the earthing wires from the starter motor. If there’s any wear on hose and electrical connections then replace.

Check all batteries are up to charge. If they have not been on trickle charge over lay-up, re-charge now and monitor electrolyte levels if unsealed. Ensure the battery tray is dry and tighten securing straps making sure all gas vents are clear. Clean terminals and coat with petroleum jelly.

Fuel tanks should be full from laying up. If not, drain water off and treat with a diesel biocide. Inspect the gas system regularly and thoroughly. It is good to get a qualified gas engineer to see the system conforms to current gas regulations and any suspect hoses and fittings should be replaced to manufacturer’s recommendations.

Bilges

Inspect bilge pump impellers and gaskets, grease and replace if necessary. With automatic bilge pumps, see float switches work and the strum box is clear. Manual strum boxes should be pumped through to see hose is clear of blockages. Service seacocks.

Deck gear, rigging and anchors

Decks need a good clean up of winter dirt and deck gear needs checking for

wear and tear. Check the stanchion bases for any place or cracks and inspect any plastic lifeline sheathing in case of corrosion. Replace if suspect. Inspect rigging looking for broken strands and any cracking at terminals. Renew as required since this could be dangerous and boat insurance can be invalidated if it is suspect. Your local sail rigging firm specialist can do this for you if you are in any doubt.

Also look over the instrumentation and furling equipment at the masthead in case work is required before the mast is stepped.

Overhaul winches and strip down any that are seized - soak components in degreaser and re-grease. Oil springs and pawls. If warps and sheets were removed for winter then this is the time to check over, renew and replace as required.

Similarly, look for corrosion on anchors and chain. Clean manual windlasses, check for wear and grease. Remove the gypsy in powered versions, grease the drum, look at the foot switch for wear, clean and grease electrical connections.

All wood on deck, teak slats etc should be oiled or varnished and paintwork touched up and stainless polished. This is an ideal time for maintenance of spray hoods and other cockpit coverings.

Interior

Having been left over the winter, the cabin will need a good clean over event if there has been a de-humidifier and heater installed. Clean in all the lockers before replacing everything and remember to display a list of where everything is in the boat for ease of finding, especially in an emergency. Thoroughly clean the galley if this has not been done and check burners - it is easier to replace on land than when the boat is in the water.

Any water in the water tank should be pumped through and a purifier added before re-filling for use. Flush through the heads adding washing up liquid/vinegar to lubricate the hoses and pumps. Check the boat’s central heating system if there is one. Re-install VHF, navigation and other equipment etc that was removed for winter storage. Safety equipment The best time to go over safety equipment is at the end of the season which allows time to store properly and replace items if there are any issues. However if this has not been done it is essential now to see all equipment is in good conditions – lives may depend on it.

Inspect fire extinguishers, flares, life-rafts, life-jackets, rubber dinghies. Replace or repair if in any doubt as to condition. Invert MOB lights to see they work and change bulb and batteries if not. Some WD40 on the copper contact strip inside should ensure good connection. Silicone grease rubber seals. The RNLI will carry out a free safety check on your boat equipment and lifeboat stations will check your lifejackets – this is really worthwhile.

Make an inventory of where safety equipment is stored and display prominently in boat - items can then be found quickly and easily in an emergency.

Sails, sprayhoods and cushions

Sailmakers are on hand for advice and since sails are the powerhouse of the sailing vessel it is important they are in good condition. If this hasn’t already been done get your sails checked over and repair as required. Similarly sprayhoods and other outdoor canvas should be looked over for wear. If you need new sails get your order in soon since, again, this is the busy time for sail lofts. Berth cushions should also be cleaned as well as any curtains and other items to be fresh for the season.

Expert advice

Professional advice is on hand from boatyards, engineers, marine service and repair firms as well as chandlers and sail-makers. Each has their own area of expertise and don’t hesitate to contact them for advice and to carry out work as required.

Now thoughts can turn to planning your activities on the water – whether it be cruising, fishing, racing, or just pottering about on the water. Enjoy a safe and successful 2017season!