Boat Maintenance Checklist

Spring is officially here & it’s time to think about dusting that boat off and getting it in top running shape.  The warm weather will be here soon & you want to be ready so you don’t miss a minute out on the water.  Here are some tips on things to check before taking your boat out for the first time this season.  Please be aware, this boat maintenance tips checklist does not represent everything you should check on your boat but merely give suggestions of where you should start.  Please consult a certified marine repair mechanic prior to working on your boat motor also be sure to consult your owner’s manual for maintenance instructions specific to your boat model.

CHECKLIST:

Belts, Cables & Hoses

1. Always check for cracking that occurred during winter storage.
2. Belts should fit tightly around the pulleys to prevent slipping. A worn belt may have a black substance near the pulley & also may fit loosely.
3. Control cables with cracks or swelling on the outer layer may indicate need to replace.  Contact your boat repair center or order cables online to replace yourself.

Electrical Connections

1. Review electrical connections for cleanliness and tightness.  Check for corrosion which is often a sign that the connection may not be safe.  Remove terminals and use a wire brush to clean connections and cable ends.
2. Charge your battery and test it so you can be sure it will hold a charge. Electrical systems should be routinely inspected by a qualified technician.

Fluid Levels
Check all fluid levels including

1. Engine oil- Change the oil if this was not done during winterizing.  Include a new oil filter & change drive lubricants
2. Coolant
3. Power trim reservoir
4. Power Steering Fluid

Propellers & Hulls

1. Inspect propellers for damage.  Verify the propeller is properly secured.
   If you experience unwanted vibration, poor performance and damage to the propulsion system, your prop may be damaged & need to be replaced.
2.  Inspect the Hull – look for cracks & distortions. Clean the outside of your boat using an environmentally-safe cleaner.

Fuel

1. Check your fuel lines for damage. Signs of damaged hoses can be either cracking, hard hoses or very soft hoses. Remember to check fuel hoses, connections and tank surfaces.
2. Insure clamps and fitting are secured.
3. Ensure the engine, exhaust and ventilation systems are also all functioning properly.

Safety Gear

1. Lifejackets need to be in good condition It’s important for passengers to have access to the correct size lifejacket for their body weight.
2. Onboard fire extinguishers must be the correct class for your boat, fully charged.

Trailer

1. Inspect trailer wheels, verify that tires are inflated to proper level.
2. Check that trailer straps are not worn and are holding properly.
3. Verify that your trailer is the proper size for your boat.

For an even more extensive boat inspection checklist, visit www.boatengine.com/boat-maintence-tips/

The Trouble with Non-OEM Fuel Lines

We receive many phone calls about boat motors not running properly. If time allows, we may make a few suggestions over the phone.  Doing some of your own troubleshooting up front may save you time and money if you choose to handle some basic tips.

So, when discussing the poor performance complaints, common symptoms include:

-Motor will not start
-The engine runs fine for a while, but then shuts down and will not restart
-Loosing power periodically and then when running on plane

When hearing of these symptoms, we suggest checking for fuel leaks, reviewing all fittings and connectors for leaks and testing the fuel bulb.  We also ask if the fuel lines have been replaced and if so, what brand has been installed? When the answer is the fuel lines have been replaced by lines purchased at a large discount store, we usually suggest purchasing OEM fuel lines and installing them with new fittings.  The life of non-oem fuel lines is very short since they are manufactured with inferior materials to save money.  The quick deterioration of the generic lines can cause boaters more problems than the money saved up front.  Frequent replacing of lines and time lost on the water is far more costly than simply purchasing the OEM lines from the get go.  If fuel lines have never been replaced, they still may need to be changed out with new OEM lines to insure fuel can reach the motor with ease.

Need new OEM fuel lines and fuel related accessories? We can help.  Our online parts storeallows you to select your motor and review the engine diagrams on the screen.  Simply place items from the microfiche drawings in your shopping cart & check out.  We usually ship orders the same day so you receive your order quickly.  Additionally, readers of our blog can enjoy $10 off orders of $50 or more by entering 10save10 coupon code at checkout.

To recap- fuel related problems can sometimes be self diagnosed and fixed at home.  We recommend using OEM parts especially with your fuel lines and connectors.  We are also happy to do the work for you, please call or bring your boat in for Kansas City boat service.  There is nothing better than a fun day out on the water with friends and family.  We take pride in quality workmanship and will get your motor running in top shape.

Boat Maintenance Checklist

Spring is here and the sun and warm temperatures are not far behind.  Soon you will want to be out enjoying the sunshine and what better way to do it than to hit the lake? Before you make your first trip to the lake this year, it’s a good idea to make sure your engine is top running shape. Below is a list of some items to review before taking your boat out. This list does not represent everything you should check but does give good suggestions of where you should start. Please consult a certified marine repair mechanic prior to working on your boat motor.  It’s also a good idea to consult your owner’s manual for maintenance instructions specific to your boat model.

If you find you need parts or service, look no further – we can help you with both.  For the do-it-yourselfer, we stock boat parts, oil, filters, lube – everything you need to get your boat in tip top shape.  For the boat owner that would rather relax and let us do the work, bring your boat in for your spring checkup soon.  We will look over your boat motor and make sure your precious time out on the water is maximized with fun.  Our mechanics attend several weeks of manufacturer training every winter so rest assured they are experts in their field and care about each and every boat they service.  Feel free to check our on-line reviews for further evidence that you will be in good hands by choosing US Boatworks for Kansas City boat repair and service.

CHECKLIST:

Cables, Belts & HosesAlways check for cracking that occurred during winter storage.
Control cables with cracks or swelling on the outer layer may indicate need to replace.Belts should fit tightly around the pulleys to prevent slipping. A worn belt may have a black substance near the pulley & also may fit loosely.
Contact your boat repair center or order cables online to replace yourself.

Electrical ConnectionsCharge your battery and test it so you can be sure it will hold a charge. Electrical systems should be routinely inspected by a qualified technician.Review electrical connections for cleanliness and tightness. Check for corrosion which is often a sign that the connection may not be safe. Remove terminals and use a wire brush to clean connections and cable ends.

Propellers & Hulls

Inspect propellers for damage. Verify the propeller is properly secured.
If you experience unwanted vibration, poor performance and damage to the propulsion system, your prop may be damaged & need to be replaced.
Inspect the Hull – look for cracks & distortions. Clean the outside of your boat using an environmentally-safe cleaner.

FuelCheck your fuel lines for damage. Signs of damaged hoses can be either cracking, hard hoses or very soft hoses. Remember to check fuel hoses, connections and tank surfaces.
Insure clamps and fitting are secured.
Ensure the engine, exhaust and ventilation systems are also all functioning properly.

Fluid Levels
Check all fluid levels including
Engine oil- Change the oil if this was not done during winterizing. Include a new oil filter & change drive lubricants
Coolant
Power trim reservoir
Power Steering Fluid

Safety GearLifejackets need to be in good condition It’s important for passengers to have access to the correct size lifejacket for their body weight.
Onboard fire extinguishers must be the correct class for your boat, fully charged.

TrailerInspect trailer wheels, verify that tires are inflated to proper level.
Check that trailer straps are not worn and are holding properly.
Verify that your trailer is the proper size for your boat.

Go here for a more extensive boat maintenance checklist.

The team at US Boatworks is excited about the upcoming boating season and looks forward to keeping you out on the water all year.

Spring Boat Maintenance

 The calendar says it’s almost spring yet the 30 degree temps make it seem like a distant dream.  As we just entered the month of April, its time to think about getting your boat out of storage and begin your spring boat maintenance.  So, if you ask yourself,
“do I need to perform boat maintenance?”   or
“where do I start?”
this article is for you.

To answer the question:
“Do I need to perform boat maintenance?” The answer is yes.  Some simple chores done now and throughout the year can save you down time and repair bills down the road.  Review the owner’s manual for your motor to see what needs to be done.

“Where do I start?”
You have two choices
1) You are a do-it-yourselfer and like to get your hands dirty and enjoy the challenge of understanding the ins & outs of boat maintenance OR
2) You prefer bringing your boat in for service and sitting back and letting the experts handle it.  The good news is that US Boatworks has you covered no matter which option you choose.

For the do-it-yourselfer, we stock boat parts, oil, filters, lube – everything you need to get your boat in tip top shape.  We provide only Mercury, Evinrude or Volvo brand name oils that are recommended by your manufacturer.  Don’t be fooled by the cheaper auto oils and lubes.  Over time, you motor’s performance will suffer.

Should you need to order boat parts for your outboard or sterndrive, our on-line engine selector shows engine diagrams/microfische with the corresponding part names.  You can even add parts you need to a shopping cart if you desire.  If you are not certain of what you need, call or email parts department for friendly help with your purchase.

For the boat owner that would rather relax and let us do the work, bring your boat in for your spring checkup soon.  We will look over your boat motor and make sure your precious time out on the water is maximized with fun.  Plan on enjoying hours of worry free time on the lake by allowing the experts do the work.  Our mechanics attend several weeks of manufacturer training every winter so rest assured they are experts in their field and care about each and every boat they service.  Feel free to check our on-line reviews for further evidence that you will be in good hands by choosing US Boatworks for Kansas City boat repair and service.

The team at US Boatworks is excited about the upcoming boating season and looks forward to keeping you out on the water this season.

Why you need Fuel Additives for your Boat Engine

Old, untreated gasoline in your boat motor can impact your engine’s performance. Over time old gasoline turns into sludge which can deposit in your carburetor, injectors and fuel lines. These deposits can harm your engine.

Treating your fuel can prevent gunk in your tank and fuel lines and remove any current deposits in your motor. We always recommend the Mercury Fuel Care System if you own a Mercury Motor.  When you buy genuine Mercury products you will be assured that it is specifically formulated for your exact engine. Don’t be fooled by less expensive, multi-purpose additives. Saving a few dollars now may lead to costly repairs down the road.

If you are unsure what additives you need, contact your authorized Mercury Dealer. Mercury Authorized Dealers have the expertise and training to handle all of your engine maintenance service and needs.  US Boatworks is a Mercury Authorized Premier Dealerwith over 30 years experience in repairing and maintaining Mercury Outboard Motors in the Kansas City area. Please call to schedule maintenance of your Mercury Outboard or follow the recommended guidelines in your owner’s manual.

2018 will be even better!

As we say goodbye to 2017, we look forward to making 2018 an even better year.  Our goal is to continue providing a superb customer experience by adding value to every customer that reaches our retail store or online shop.  Adding value through customer education, friendly advice and a wide array of product to meet your needs.  Browse our blog for boat repair topics, call or email us with questions about outboard or sterndrives.  We are the best boat parts store and boat repair shop and will continue to improve and grow over the coming year.

Thank you for allowing us to keep you out on the water all season long.

Boat Motor Tune Up Instructions

Judging by the huge quantity of duck boats we have in our repair shop for tune-ups right now, it is clear that duck season in our area is underway. To be sure your first duck hunting trip this year goes smoothly, make sure your outboard motor is running in top shape.

The first order of business is to tune up your motor.  There are many steps involved in tuning up your motor, the first of which is to decide if you are going to do it yourself or leave it to the professionals.  If you are leaving it to the professionals, get your boat to the shop asap to ensure your motor is running smoothly. Trusted Kansas City boat repair shops will have a lot of winterizations to do at this time of year so don’t put this off until the last minute.

If you are doing an outboard motor tune up yourself, your first order of business is to pull out your boat owners manual.  If you can’t locate your owners manual, call our come down to our store in Kansas City to get one. Once you have your owners manual, check guidelines for recommended procedures, lubes, oils and replacement parts.  Failure to use manufacturer required brands can void your warranty and may cause you further headaches down the road.

Start with a visual inspection of your motor starting at the bottom.  Look for signs of leaking lubricant that may run down the propeller.   This could be a signal that seals have gone bad.  If this may be the case, bring your boat in for service. Next check the propeller for signs of damage.  Cracks in the blades by the hub, large chips or bent blades call for repair or replacement of your prop.

As you move up the motor, check and fix missing or loose screws, nuts or bolts on the lower unit.  Lubricate the grease fittings at the transom bracket, swivel bracket, and transom clamp screw as directed in your owner’s manual. The throttle control should be inspected and lubricated per your manual.

Next up is to replace the spark plugs and fuel filter. Then it’s on to the lower unit. Check your owner’s manual for the recommended frequency of lubricant changes for your outboard motor’s lower unit. Begin by removing the unit’s top and bottom fill plugs and allow the lube to drain into a container of your choice. Replace the lubricant with the manufacturer recommended product by filling lubricant into the bottom fill hole until lubricant reaches the top fill hole. Once filled, replace the top plug, remove the applicator nozzle and replace the bottom plug then wipe clean.

Last but not least, get all your hunting gear out.  Clean, inspect and replace as necessary then get out there and have fun.

Celebrate National Hunting and Fishing Month

October has been declared National Hunting and Fishing Month by U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke.  Zinke is a proponent of hunting and fishing and looks to expand these activities in our National Parks. He notes in an article on the Kansas Wildlife Federation Website, that hunters and anglers play a huge part in conservation by contributing billions of dollars to protect our wildlife. It’s his opinion that the more people out there fishing and hunting, the better.

So all you hunters and fishers, get out there and enjoy the outdoors but do it within the law and with safety in mind.  Rules and regulations around hunting and fishing can be complex.  The Kansas Outdoors Website is a great resource for the do-es and don’ts of both fishing and duck/bird hunting in Kansas.

To be sure your first duck hunting trip this year goes smoothly, we strongly suggest your outboard motor is running in top shape.  Tuning up your motor is the first order of business.  There are many steps involved in tuning up your motor  & the first is to decide if you are going to do it yourself or leave it to the professionals.  If you are leaving it to the professionals, get your boat into the shop asap to insure your motor is running smoothly. Trusted Kansas City boat repair shops will have a lot of winterizations to do at this time of year so don’t put this off until the last minute.

If you are doing an outboard motor tune up yourself, your first order of business is to pull out your boat owners manual.  If you can’t locate your owners manual, call our come down to our marine store in Kansas City to get one. Once you have your owners manual, check guidelines for recommended procedures, lubes, oils and replacement parts.  Failure to use manufacturer required brands can void your warranty and may cause you further headaches down the road.

Start with a visual inspection of your motor starting at the bottom.  Look for signs of leaking lubricant that may run down the propeller.   This could be a signal that seals have gone bad.  If this may be the case, bring your boat in for service. Next check the propeller for signs of damage.  Cracks in the blades by the hub, large chips or bent blades call for repair or replacement of your prop.

As you move up the motor, check and fix missing or loose screws, nuts or bolts on the lower unit.  Lubricate the grease fittings at the transom bracket, swivel bracket, and transom clamp screw as directed in your owner’s manual. The throttle control should be inspected and lubricated per your manual.

Next up is to replace the spark plugs and fuel filter. Then it’s on to the lower unit. Check your owner’s manual for the recommended frequency of lubricant changes for your outboard motor’s lower unit. Begin by removing the unit’s top and bottom fill plugs and allow the lube to drain into a container of your choice. Replace the lubricant with the manufacturer recommended product by filling lubricant into the bottom fill hole until lubricant reaches the top fill hole. Once filled, replace the top plug, remove the applicator nozzle and replace the bottom plug then wipe clean.

Last but not least, get all your hunting gear out.  Clean, inspect and replace as necessary then get out there and have fun.

The best oil for your outboard

Motor oil for 2 and 4 stroke engines is readily available at discount stores or automotive stores.  The 
price is slightly cheaper than the OEM boat engine oil so we often get the question:  “Can I safely use aftermarket or generic oil in my outboard motor?”

Always use Brand Name OEM Oil for your motor.

The manufacturers of the generic oils say their oils are safe for your 2 or 4 stroke outboard motor. While this may be true but is it the best oil for your outboard?

Budget lubricants usually use cut rate ingredients to achieve a low price point. They have also manufactured this oil to work with a chain saw, weed eater, lawn mower, car and more.  Since they cover many different motor types, the additives needed for your specific outboard motor are missing. Genuine Mercury and Evinrude/Johnson lubricants are blended with the highest quality base stock and additive packages to meet the demands demands of the 2-cycle or 4-cycle outboard engine.  These additives prevent corrosion, reduce foaming and keep your engine properly lubricated. Corrosion is like cancer to your motor; do everything you can to prevent corrosion.

Always choose genuine OEM boat motor oil specifically manufactured for your engine for optimum performance. A few extra dollars now could prevent huge repair bills later.

You can buy genuine Mercury Oil or Evinrude Outboard Oil, lubes and boat parts at our shop anytime. Bring in your refillable container to get bulk oil at a discount.

Review Recommended Care from Mercury for your Mercury Engine.

Happy Labor Day!

Here’s to the many workers have contributed to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country. While we recognize the history of this great nation, Labor Day also marks the last big celebration of the summer season.  So, all you hard workers, get out there and enjoy your weekend. Temperatures will change soon and we will be packing up the boats for the winter.  Have a blast out there while you can!!!

Outboard Motor Maintenance

So you own a Mercury outboard but just haven’t quite kept up on maintenance.  Perhaps you have no idea where you stored the owners manual and are just crossing your fingers that you haven’t forgot any major maintenance items. For anyone who can identify with the above, this article is for you.

Regular engine maintenance is essential to ensuring your engine will provide you with years of trouble-free operation.  Mercury Authorized Dealers have the expertise and training to handle all of your engine maintenance service and needs.  US Boatworks is a Mercury Authorized Premier Dealer with over 30 years experience in repairing and maintaining Mercury Outboard Motors in the Kansas City area.  Please call to schedule your 100 and 300 hour maintenance of your Mercury Outboard or follow the recommended guidelines below.

For the do-it-yourselfer, timely, accurate maintenance is essential.  The maintenance checklist at the bottom of the page is a great reminder of items to be reviewed at both 100 and 300 engine hours.  Next you will find a grease chart for fresh water use to insure the proper product is used on your motor.  Always refer to your specific owners manual or call your authorized Mercury Motors dealer before performing these recommended services.

OILS AND LUBRICANTS  

Oils and lubricants are an integral part to keeping your motor parts moving properly.  Don’t be fooled into buying generic or multi-purpose oils which are inferior to genuine manufacturer oils.  Mercury Oils and Lubricants are specifically engineered for the unique needs of marine engines and rigorously tested to meet high standards. You can get the most out of your engine while having total peace of mind that your engine is being protected when you choose oils manufactured by your engine manufacturer.

GREASE CHART FOR FRESH WATER USE

STEERING SYSTEMS / CABLE, LINKAGES	2-4-C	100 hrs/at least once a yr
THROTTLE AND SHIFT CABLES, LINKAGES	2-4-C	100 hrs
REMOTE CONTROLS	2-4-C	100 hrs/at least once a yr
PROP SHAFT	2-4-C	100hrs/120 days
SWIVEL PINS	2-4-C	100hrs/120 days
TILT LOCK MECHANISM/TILT TUBE	2-4-C	100 days
DRIVE SHAFT SPLINES (ENGINE COUPLERS)	EXTREME	100 hrs/at least once a yr

MAINTENANCE CHECK LIST	100 HRS	300 HRS
INSPECT ENGINE AND ACCESSORIES FOR VISIBLE DAMAGE	♦	♦
RUN ENGINE FOR CORRECT OPERATION, CHECK FOR ANY ACTIVE CODES	♦	♦
DRAIN GEAR HOUSING AND REFILL WITH GEAR LUBE	♦	♦
REPLACE GEAR LUBE	♦	♦
SERVICE WATER PUMP	♦
INSPECT THERMOSTATS, REPLACE IF NECESSARY	♦	♦
LUBRICATE DRIVE SHAFT SPLINES	♦	♦
INSPECT PROPELLER SHAFT NUT, TORQUE IF NECESSARY	♦	♦
INSPECT IGNITION COMPONENTS, REPLACE SPARK PLUGS IF NECESSARY	♦
INSPECT FUEL TANK, FUEL LINES AND CONNECTIONS	♦	♦
INSPECT FUEL FILTERS, REPLACE IF NECESSARY	♦	♦
CHANGE ENGINE OIL AND REPLACE OIL FILTER (FOURSTROKE ONLY)	♦	♦
INSPECT HIGH PRESSURE FILTER, REPLACE IF NECESSARY	♦	♦
CHECK AND INSPECT ANODE, REPLACE IF NECESSARY	♦	♦