SPRING COMMISSIONING

“It’s the most wonderful time of the year!” Time to get the boat ready for the season — there is no better time of year on a boater’s calendar. To help ensure a trouble-free launch, let’s see how ready you are.

Your spring trailer check-over and maintenance should include:

A. Checking tires for dry rot, flat spots and irregularly worn tread B. Checking wheel bearings and/ or changing wheel-bearing grease C. Making sure the boat fits the trailer properly D. Checking for worn and/or damaged bunks, rollers and supports E. A, B and D F. All of the above

A typical spring engine check-over should include:

A. Checking fuel lines for softness, cracking, brittleness, and inner-wall separation from alcohol-extended fuels Checking belts for proper tension Checking all water hoses for deterioration and cracking None of the above; this should have been done during fall layup All of the above; these are all good

If, when checking through-hull fittings, you find cracked and missing sealant and/or broken fittings, you should:

A. Replace any fitting that is suspect and bed with new sealant Have a professional check and replace any and all fittings that are suspect Remove any suspect fitting, rebed with proper sealant and tighten securely A or B

When checking anti-corrosion devices, you should:

A. Replace any anode that has deteriorated to less than half its original size B. Paint anodes that have deteriorated to preserve them Inspect propellers, gear cases and related material (rudders, shafts, etc.) for signs of corrosion B and C A and C