Boat Maintenance Rescources | Sea Tow https://seatow.com/blog/category/boat-maintenance/ Thu, 04 Apr 2024 15:18:39 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2 https://seatow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/cropped-favicon-32x32.png Boat Maintenance Rescources | Sea Tow https://seatow.com/blog/category/boat-maintenance/ 32 32 Do You Need a De-Icer? https://seatow.com/blog/do-you-need-a-de-icer/ Sun, 29 Jan 2023 02:37:34 +0000 https://seatow.com/blog/do-you-need-a-de-icer/ Truth is, you probably should have thought about a de-icer in the fall. Although this winter has been easy on […]

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Truth is, you probably should have thought about a de-icer in the fall. Although this winter has been easy on us, there’s no time like the present to make good on previous oversights.

The background.

“Ice can wreak havoc on docks and boats throughout the colder months,” says Andy Gillis of Kasco Marine, a leading provider of de-icers in the US and Canada. “A boat encased in ice can suffer extensive structural damage. And the gradual daily movements of an ice sheet can splinter a dock into pieces. All of this is amplified if you live in an area with tidal influence.”

boat dock covered in ice and snow

 

As ice gets to be around six inches thick, it begins freezing to pilings. When tides rise or ice sheets shift, the pilings get jacked up from the bottom. As ice expands, it continues to push and pull the pilings, tilting them over or causing a roller coaster effect on a pier.

The whole scenario can cause more than an inconvenience. Replacing an average residential dock can cost thousands and that can double if you’ve lost a boat lift along the way. Add the hassle of applying for new permits and your upcoming boating season could be on the line.

Do I really need a de-icer?

If you keep your boat in the water year-round anywhere from northern Virginia to coastal Maine, a de-icer is a smart investment. In general, they use a propeller system to create current and lift warmer water from the bottom to the surface so it can eat away at the ice. Kasco shows an example of the process here.

sailboats covered in ice in the winter

 

De-icers work well in saltwater environments where the temperature differentials between the surface and bottom may be several degrees. They even perform suitably in freshwater lakes where the temperature difference may be as little as half a degree. The size and quantity of the de-icers you’ll need depend on the area you need to keep open. The smaller the area, and the greater the temperature differential from surface to bottom, the smaller/fewer de-icers you’ll need.

Next steps?

Even though winter is halfway over, there’s still plenty of time for another serious freeze. Most propeller-style de-icers can be installed at any point in the year, so now is as good a time as any. Recreational boaters typically need one or two ½- to 1-hp units to get the job done. Beyond the winter, they can also be used for summer aeration of stagnant or slow-moving water. All you have to do is add a special aeration float and you’ll be on your way to avoiding possible fish kills come summer.

Looking Ahead.

Sea Tow membership goes beyond 24/7 on-water assistance and members receive the most comprehensive benefits available. Membership includes a full suite of services for every boat you own, rent or bareboat charter. Learn more about our membership options today. To find the Sea Tow closest to you, use our service locator or call our Customer Care Team at 800-4-SEATOW.

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How to Winterize a Boat: A Comprehensive Guide for Boat Owners https://seatow.com/blog/how-to-winterize-a-boat/ https://seatow.com/blog/how-to-winterize-a-boat/#respond Tue, 25 Oct 2022 19:26:39 +0000 https://seatow.com/?p=8578 For some, the boating season may be winding down, and winterizing your boat is on your mind. For the more […]

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For some, the boating season may be winding down, and winterizing your boat is on your mind. For the more fortunate year-round boaters, a mid-season checkup for your boat should certainly be on the list.

This blog is a step-by-step guide on winterizing a boat, the needed tools, and products, as well as mid-season maintenance tips.

What Do You Need to Winterize a Boat?

Here are the essential tools and products a boat owner may need for winterization:

  • Antifreeze
  • Fogging oil
  • Motor oil
  • Fuel stabilizer
  • Oil filter
  • Lower-unit lube and drain plug gaskets
  • Oil suction pump
  • Lower-unit lube injection pump

 

How to Winterize a Boat – Important Steps to Take

Before undertaking any DIY winterization process, review and understand your manufacturer’s guides to ensure you are taking the correct steps for your specific boat and engine(s).

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to winterize your gasoline outboard engine-powered boat in preparation for winter.

1.    Flush and Drain Water Lines

Water expands under extremely low winter temperatures causing damage. Be sure to drain water from the engine cooling systems, plumbing system, or any other system holding water. Flush the engine using water muffs until the engine reaches the optimum operating temperature.

2.    Replace Engine Oil and Fluids

Different engines require different materials and methods to be fully winterized. Regardless, it’s essential to check your operator’s manual for the requirements. 

  • Change all fluids and filters as required. Ensure proper levels, including the oil, coolant, steering fluid, transmission/lower unit fluid, and outdrive oil.
  • Inspect the fuel lines for any cracking and stiffness, and replace any line showing signs of wear and tear.
  • Grease all the moving parts.

3.    Stabilize Fuel

Fuel deteriorates in a short lifespan and causes the build-up of varnish and gum in the engine, resulting in hard starts, poor performance and reduced engine life.

  • Top up the fuel tank with fresh fuel.
  • Add a fuel stabilizer to prevent the build-up of varnish in the fuel lines, fuel injector, or carburetor.
  • Ensure you run stabilized fuel through your engine.  

4.    Protect Internal Engine Components

During storage, engine oil drains away, potentially exposing internal engine components to scuffing and corrosion.

Use a fogging spray that coats internal engine components with a layer of anti-corrosive compound.

5.    Remove Valuables

Remove any valuables and expensive electronics for safe storage.

Remember to insure your boat even if it will be out of action.

6.    Clean and Wax

  • Use a pressure washer as well as an acid-based hull or bottom cleaner if needed to remove fouling. It ensures you will have a clean surface during spring repainting. 
  • Thoroughly clean the cabin, heads, kitchen, and helm by scrubbing the topsides using a non-skid deck cleaner to remove dirt from the crevices. Then, clean all teak, plastic, glass, vinyl, and canvas. 
  • Apply a fresh coat of waterproofing to the canvas and wax the topsides of exposed fiberglass.

7.    Safe Storage

After winterizing your boat, shrinkwrap it, use a canvas cover or place it in winter storage to shield it from the harsh weather as you wait for spring.

Mid-Season Maintenance Routine

If you are boating year-round, consider the following mid-season checkup tips. Be sure to review and understand your manufacturers’ guides to ensure you are taking the correct steps for your specific boat and engine(s).

Electrical Inspections

  • Check and confirm that the batteries are fully charged.
  • Clean the terminals and cable ends with a stiff wire brush and replace wing nuts with stainless steel lock nuts to prevent the cables from loosening up.
  • Battery cables must be secured appropriately to the battery posts, so ensure the cover caps are still in place.
  • Check all switches and knobs. Turn on lights, blow your horn, run the livewell, and wash down to ensure all controls are working. 
  • Check helm and cabin switches. Additionally, if you have an automatic bilge, ensure the pump float is working, along with the controller for manual operation (typically located at the helm).

Mechanical Inspections

Before any regular maintenance routine, always refer to the manufacturer’s operational manual.

  • Check all engine fluid levels: oil, coolant, steering fluid, transmission/lower unit, and outdrive oil.
  • Inspect the fuel lines for any cracking and stiffness, and replace any line showing signs of wear and tear.
  • Grease all the moving parts.
  • Turn the engine on and listen carefully for loose belts. 
  • Double-check hose connections and ensure the steering wheel turns freely and smoothly in all directions.
  • Confirm your engine cut-off switch works by removing the lanyard to switch off the engine to prove the cut-off functionality, and then remove the key. 
  • Double-check all your safety gear to confirm their validity and functionality. These should include VHF radio, flares, fire extinguishers, boot hooks, lines, as well as first aid kits.

 

Unmatched member benefits

As the premier leader in on-water boating assistance, members receive the most comprehensive benefits available. Membership includes a full suite of on-water assistance services for every boat you own or rent. Learn more about our membership options today. To find the Sea Tow closest to you, use our service locator or call our Customer Care Team at 800-4-SEATOW.

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Boating Season Shakedown Cruise https://seatow.com/blog/boating-season-shakedown-cruise/ https://seatow.com/blog/boating-season-shakedown-cruise/#respond Fri, 08 Apr 2022 17:13:04 +0000 https://seatow.com/?p=4708 It’s hard to pull back the reigns on the first trip of a new boating season, you’ll naturally want to […]

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It’s hard to pull back the reigns on the first trip of a new boating season, you’ll naturally want to make plans for a full day of boating on the water. And while that’s all well and good, be sure you take a “shakedown” cruise first… even if your vessel was operating flawlessly the last time you were out on it. If you’re lucky to live in an area where weather permits year-round boating, consider this your midseason checkup!

Here are eight checkpoints that should be part of any spring shakedown cruise:

  1. Before you leave the house, check that your registration and boat insurance policy are current and valid.
  2. Ensure you have all Coast Guard-required equipment on board including approved life jackets for each passenger and a fire extinguisher that is not expired. Refresh your medical kit (and sunblock is never a bad decision).
  3. Inspect your trailer and vessel on land before heading out. Check the trailer tires for proper inflation and make sure the bearings aren’t frozen. Be sure the boat plug is in place and an anchor is on board. Top off your gas tank and give the entire hull a once-over.
  4. Check the fuel filter for dirt and grime, and clean or change the spark plugs. Check the engine’s strainer for weeds and make sure your scuppers are clear.
  5. After launching, start your engine and listen carefully. Check to ensure a strong and steady stream of water is being pumped out the tell-tale. If it isn’t, turn the engine off and check for blockage. Do not run the engine if you cannot get water to shoot from the tell-tale or it will overheat.
  6. Before leaving the dock, run through your electronics to ensure everything is functioning properly. Check that the chart plotter, depth sounder, radio, freshwater systems, and all instruments and lights are functioning.
  7. Getting underway, go light on the throttle. Steadily build up speed by increasing RPMs incrementally. Hold each new setting for a minute or two before adding more speed. As you progress, check to ensure trim tabs are responding properly.
  8. Get a good feel for how your vessel reacts to the slightest nudge of the throttle while also listening for extraneous rattles, clanking and clinking sounds. Stop, locate and either fix or record anything that sounds loose, comes free or appears shaky including fishing rod holders, electronics, cleats, guardrails, fish boxes, coolers, etc.

 

Making the time to shake everything out can ultimately save you a tow back to the dock and big bucks for fixing small problems before they become big ones. So slap a smile on that face, step aboard and set a course for the nearest stretch of safe open water to shake it down.

For a season of worry-free boating, make sure your Sea Tow membership is current. Learn more about our membership options and find the one that’s right for you. Pay one annual rate and receive the most comprehensive member benefits available. To find the Sea Tow closest to you, use our service locator or call our Customer Care Center at 800-4-SEATOW.

 

Photo credit: @csmphotos

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How To Trim Your Boat https://seatow.com/blog/how-to-trim-your-boat/ Tue, 28 Sep 2021 01:14:29 +0000 https://seatow.com/blog/how-to-trim-your-boat/ While it simply describes the angle of the bow while the boat is under power, setting the proper trim given […]

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While it simply describes the angle of the bow while the boat is under power, setting the proper trim given travel conditions can significantly increase your vessel’s efficiency, speed and comfort.

Novice operators of small and mid-sized outboard powered boats often look back toward the engine(s) when setting the trim since it is, indeed, the angle of the outboard motor or sterndrive gear case and propellers that moves in response to a trim toggle switch located either on the throttle or the dashboard. While the engine angle does change, the effect is truly measured by the bow either rising or falling at speed. A properly trimmed boat neither pushes a ton of water or porpoises by bounding off waves. Instead, it runs smoothly, with firm control on reasonable turns, and leaves a tight wake in its path.

To adjust a boat’s trim, begin with your vessel on plane and the engine shaft parallel to the water surface. This is referred to as a neutral trim position. From this point, pressing the UP button on the trim control will raise your bow. Pressing the DOWN button will lower your bow. Adjust your vessel as necessary for the smoothest ride possible using slight increments. You’ve hit the sweet spot when the engine runs smoothly and as quietly as possible. If you have a gas efficiency display on the dashboard, you should be able to confirm improvement immediately.

 

SEA TOW CAN HELP

Sea Tow has been the premier leader in on-water boating assistance since 1983. With Sea Tow, you pay one annual rate and receive the most comprehensive member benefits available. Membership includes a full-suite of on-water assistance services for every boat you own or rent. Learn more about our membership options today. To find the Sea Tow closest to you, use our service locator or call our Customer Care Team at 800-4-SEATOW.

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How Do You Store Your Stuff? https://seatow.com/blog/storage-on-your-vessel/ Wed, 31 Mar 2021 16:07:47 +0000 https://seatow.com/blog/how-do-your-store-your-stuff/ As you gear up for another boating season, it’s time to reevaluate your storage plan. Where do you put stuff? […]

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As you gear up for another boating season, it’s time to reevaluate your storage plan.

Where do you put stuff? It’s a question every boat owner faces since storage space is at a premium. To help keep gear organized and easy to reach, consider adding the following storage systems to your vessel.

Dock Box

These are a great storage solution, especially for large items that aren’t needed on every trip including spare life vests, water toys, extra ropes and cleaning materials.

Clear Utility Boxes

Choose several sizes for organizing small items like screws, clamps, and fishing lures. Keep small boxes in a glove compartment or drawers. Similarly, load larger boxes together in utility bins.

Bag It Up

Able to be smushed into tight places, water-proof carry bags are ideal for blankets, sweatshirts and small to mid-sized items you’d like to keep dry. For quick-drying or waterproof items like water shoes, water wings or snorkels, mesh bags can be hung over rails, behind a seat or from a cabin wall.

Bungee Cords

Store charts and lightweight flat items overhead using crisscrossed bungee cords to make a web on the ceiling or beneath a T-top. Use one or two long cords with multiple hooks or a series of cords attached hook-to-hook.

MEMBER BENEFITS BEYOND 24/7 TOWING

As the premier leader in on-water boating assistance, Sea Tow members receive the most comprehensive benefits available. Membership includes a full suite of on-water assistance services for every boat you own, rent lease or bareboat charter. Learn more about our membership options today. To find the Sea Tow closest to you, use our service locator or call our Customer Care Team at 800-4-SEATOW.

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Cleaning Your Boat Vinyl https://seatow.com/blog/cleaning-your-boat-vinyl/ Thu, 13 Aug 2020 08:36:08 +0000 https://seatow.com/blog/cleaning-your-boat-vinyl/ Boat vinyl: it’s a godsend and a curse. Tough, adaptable and used for everything, it solves a lot of would-be […]

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Boat vinyl: it’s a godsend and a curse. Tough, adaptable and used for everything, it solves a lot of would-be problems for boaters. On the other hand, it can quickly grow dirty, grimy, and uninviting if you don’t take care of it regularly. Cleaning your boat vinyl after every trip should simply be part of a boater’s routine.

THE PROBLEM

Essentially, mold and mildew are the culprits that skunk-up vinyl on boats. Both prosper in moisture-laden situations, especially where sunlight is limited. For these reasons, the care of vinyl should begin with keeping them dry. If you are lucky enough to have removable seat cushions, clean thoroughly and store them away in your garage or boat locker. If they can’t be easily removed, clean them using a rag, scrub brush, and cleanser after each trip – and make sure they are fully dry before pulling on your boat cover. Pay particular attention to drying out areas where the vinyl folds or is tucked away. Mold and mildew thrive on the oil and dirt that accumulates in the creases and will spread from there, so best to make sure you get to the source.

THE SOLUTION

There’s a wide assortment of cleaners available that are designed to kill mold and mildew. When possible, choose an organic elixir or one labeled as non-toxic to marine and aquatic life. Use cleaners and protectants sparsely and only in areas where run-off can be controlled. As an alternative to commercial cleaners, some boaters mix their own. Often, it’s a combination of white vinegar, liquid dish soap (usually Dawn®), warm water, and club soda. It will work if you are consistent, but once mold and mildew get the upper hand, you’ll need the strength of a store-bought variety.

Undoubtedly, the single most effective home cleaning remedy for dirty vinyl is a half-cup of bleach added to a five-gallon bucket of water. Only resort to this option when desperate measures are required. While bleach will clean things up, it will also stress the fabric and stitching. Whether using bleach or another cleaner, apply and wait five to ten minutes before removing. The extra time allows it to go to work and will dramatically reduce the severity to which mold and mildew could rebound.

Lesson learned

At the very least, give your vinyl a quick spray and wipe down every time you get back to the dock. Make sure there is airflow under your cover as a stagnant, damp environment can foster the bloom. That way, when you step aboard for a day on the water with family, you won’t have to search for clean towels to serve as a barrier between your seats and your loved ones.

UNMATCHED MEMBER BENEFITS

Sea Tow has been the premier leader in on-water boating assistance since 1983. With Sea Tow, you pay one annual rate and receive the most comprehensive member benefits available. Membership includes a full suite of on-water assistance services for every boat you own or rent. Learn more about our membership options today. To find the Sea Tow closest to you, use our service locator or call our Customer Care Team at 800-4-SEATOW.

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5 Projects to Cure Winter Boating Blues https://seatow.com/blog/5-projects-to-cure-your-winter-boating-blues/ Tue, 14 Jan 2020 00:01:56 +0000 https://seatow.com/blog/5-diy-projects-to-satisfy-winter-boating-cravings/ Winter boating (or lack thereof) giving you the blues? If you’re located in the northern part of the country, you’ve […]

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Winter boating (or lack thereof) giving you the blues? If you’re located in the northern part of the country, you’ve winterized your boat and stored it for the season, the boating version of seasonal affective disorder has set in. Don’t worry, there are a few winter projects that can reunite you with your boat and help you kiss those winter blues goodbye. Here are five to consider:

 

  • Upgrade your sound system –

There’s nothing quite like a beautiful summer day of boating with your favorite tunes. Music and boating go hand-in-hand, so take this opportunity to install a new sound system in your boat. Replacing the stereo head units and speakers is one of the most common DIY projects in the boating world. With a little bit of research and patience, you’ll be well on your way to plenty of jam sessions.

  • Apply a fresh coat of paint –

With your boat out of the water for the winter, now is the perfect time to apply a fresh coat of paint and to get it in tip-top shape for the coming season. Much like sound system upgrades, boat painting is one of the most popular DIY projects for boaters all over.

  • Fix up your boat cover –

Winter months are the perfect time to make repairs to your boat cover. Did you know that you can buy replacement snaps and the tool to install them? The cost is minimal and the installation couldn’t be easier!

  • Replace worn-out gaskets –

It’s important to always keep an eye on things like gaskets to keep your boat running smoothly for years to come. It may seem like a small task, but keeping condensation and contaminants OUT is incredibly important.

  • Take care of your batteries –

Much like gaskets and other small parts, your boat’s batteries are easy to overlook. Always take the time to clean, charge, and properly store your batteries – especially if you’re pulling your boat for the winter. If case you forget and your battery dies on your maiden voyage of the season, call your Sea Tow Captain. They’ll get you back up and running in no time.

For more information and tips on winterizing your boat, visit the Sea Tow Blog for boat maintenance resources.

 

MEMBER BENEFITS BEYOND 24/7 TOWING

As the premier leader in on-water boating assistance, Sea Tow members receive the most comprehensive benefits available. Membership includes a full suite of on-water assistance services for every boat you own or rent. Learn more about our membership options today. To find the Sea Tow closest to you, use our service locator or call our Customer Care Team at 800-4-SEATOW.

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Closing-up Shop and Mid-Season Check-Ups https://seatow.com/blog/closing-up-shop-and-mid-season-check-ups/ Thu, 21 Nov 2019 19:08:51 +0000 https://seatow.com/blog/closing-up-shop-and-mid-season-check-ups/ If you live above the Mason-Dixon Line, November is pretty much the end of the line when it comes to […]

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If you live above the Mason-Dixon Line, November is pretty much the end of the line when it comes to the recreational boating season. There just comes a point where it’s generally too cold, too snotty, and not safe to make venturing out a reasonable venture. That means it’s time to close up shop by winterizing your boat and motor and stowing it until spring finally rolls back around.

For those living in warmer climates boating season may not have to come to an end, but it’s still important to do a full winter review on your vessel. Those who boat throughout the year put added miles, stress, and wear and tear on their boats with continuous use. While winterizing your boat may not be needed, it’s always a good idea to set a few hours aside and give your craft a full once-over as if you are ready start a brand new season so you can nip potential problems in the bud before they grow into full-scale inconveniences or worse. If you trailer, now is a good time to perform a trailer check as well.

Following are some thoughts and tips on winterizing your boat, as well as a mid-season check for those who are year-round boaters. Note that these are basic starting points. If you discover any unexpected or potentially serious problems, a visit to a boat shop for a more complete inspection is probably in order.

Full Winterization

It boils down to giving your vessel a serious deep cleaning and removing any remaining water so it will not corrode engine parts or freeze and expand, damaging the motor in the process. Different types of motors require different materials and methods to be fully winterized. Check your operator’s manual for details.

Start with a thorough cleaning of the cabin, heads, kitchen, and helm. Scrub the topsides with a non-skid deck cleaner to get the dirt out of all the crevices. Next, clean all teak, plastic, glass, and vinyl, plus your canvas. Apply a fresh coat of waterproofing to the canvas if necessary. Be sure to wax the topside and all exposed fiberglass as well. Use an acid-based hull or bottom cleaner to remove any fouling and ensure you have a clean surface in the spring to repaint if necessary.

Next, check all fluid levels including the oil, coolant, steering fluid, transmission/lower unit fluid, and outdrive oil. Inspect all fuel lines for cracking and flexibility and replace any that show wear or stiffness. Grease any hardware as per your operation manual. Top off your fuel tank and add a fuel stabilizer to prevent water from forming in the bottom or varnish from building up in the lines, fuel injector, or carburetor.

Finally, drain any remaining water from the engine, fuel system, plumbing system, or any other system that can hold water. Then you’re ready to fully winterize the motor per manufacturer instructions.

Mid-Season Check-Up

If you boat year-round, consider this to be just like starting a new season. Begin with a battery check to see if it is fully charged. Take a minute to clean the terminals and cable ends with a stiff wire brush and replace wing nuts with stainless steel lock nuts. This helps prevent the cables from loosening up. Note that the Coast Guard requires batteries to be properly secured with the battery posts covered, so make sure the cover caps are still in place.

Next, check all switches and knobs. Turn on all lights, blow your horn, run the livewell and wash down to ensure all switches are working. Check all helm and cabin switches and note for repair any that aren’t working properly. If you have an automatic bilge, ensure the pump float switch is working, along with the switch for manual operation.

Check all engine fluid levels including the oil, coolant, steering fluid, transmission/lower unit, or outdrive oil. Visually inspect all fuel lines for cracking and flexibility and replace any that show wear or stiffness. Grease any hardware as per your operation manual.

If all is good at this point, turn the engine on and listen carefully for loose belts. Double-check all hose connections and make sure the steering wheel turns freely and smoothly in all directions. Check to ensure everyone and everything is clear of the engine and then shift it into forward gear, reverse, and back to neutral.

Lastly, confirm your engine cut-off switch actually works. Turn off the engine by removing the lanyard to prove the switch is operating properly, and then remove the key. Once you’re satisfied, it’s time to cruise.

For more information on winterizing your boat or other boat maintenance resources, visit the Sea Tow Blog.

MEMBER BENEFITS BEYOND 24/7 TOWING

As the premier leader in on-water boating assistance, Sea Tow members receive the most comprehensive benefits available. Membership includes a full suite of on-water assistance services for every boat you own, rent lease or bareboat charter. Learn more about our membership options today. To find the Sea Tow closest to you, use our service locator or call our Customer Care Team at 800-4-SEATOW.

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Bottom’s Up https://seatow.com/blog/bottom-paint/ Mon, 29 Apr 2019 18:40:28 +0000 https://seatow.com/blog/bottoms-up/ The primary purpose of bottom paint is to defend against plant growth, slime, barnacles, or similar crusty creatures hitching a […]

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The primary purpose of bottom paint is to defend against plant growth, slime, barnacles, or similar crusty creatures hitching a free ride on your vessel’s bottom. Unprotected, your hull below the waterline makes a great surface for such creatures to adhere to. Once they do, they’ll be a drag both in terms of performance and aesthetics.

It would be great if all you had to do was slap a couple of coats of paint on the bottom and head off for your favorite cove. There are many variables to consider when choosing the right bottom paint for your boat. That means you are going to have to do some homework and ask questions, to ensure that the bottom paint you decide on will be compatible with the current coating over which it will be applied.

As a rule, avoid bargain brand paints and stick with the tried and true for this project.

Here are key points to keep in mind as you get underway. Check with your marina to make sure you’ll be allowed to paint your boat yourself on-site. Some boatyards and marinas prohibit this act as a simple point of business, others may not allow it due to environmental concerns or regulations.

Safety First

Understand that anti-fouling bottom paint and sanded fiberglass are toxic. Always wear a respirator and protective eyewear, gloves, and clothes when sanding, scraping, or painting. A tarp will be needed to capture the sanding residue and any paint chips. Make sure your vessel is firmly secured and perform a full hull check to ensure you won’t be painting over any damage that needs to be addressed. Safety is always rule number one.

Start With A Wash-down And Good Scrubbing

  • Before applying any bottom paint, powerwash below the water line to ensure as clean a hull as possible. This is best done when the boat is first removed from the water as most organisms are easier to wash away before they’ve had a chance to dry and set.
  • If you didn’t wash down immediately, it’s going to take a lot more elbow grease. Plenty of scrubbing and a random rotary sander will be your best friends. Be sure the hull is dry before starting this task.
  • If the current bottom paint seems to be in good to fair shape, there’s no need to take it all off. Just scrape and sand any loose or flaky areas and recoat following the manufacturer’s directions on the can. If it’s in really bad shape, consider using a paint stripper formula or to have it professionally removed to completely clean the hull before starting over.

Pick The Right Paint

It’s important to choose the right type of paint for the job at hand. It can take research since so many formulas are available, but it will make a difference in the long run for your vessel.

  • Anti-fouling paint is designed to guard against barnacles and zebra mussels
  • Dual-purpose formulas guard against slime and algae
  • Some paints will last one year while others multiple
  • If you have an aluminum hull, avoid copper-based paints

There’s a lot to consider here – which is why so many boaters hire the pros.

Most potential problems can be prevented by simply asking an expert. Actually reading the directions on the label can be a game-changer. You’ll find tips on how thickly to apply the paint, the overcoating, and even launching times. If you’re going to do it yourself, just take your time and think it through. You’ll be heading out on the water before you know it.

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Spring Boat Cleaning Tips for Boaters https://seatow.com/blog/spring-cleaning-tips-for-boaters/ Wed, 20 Mar 2019 05:50:59 +0000 https://seatow.com/blog/spring-cleaning-tips-for-boaters/ Spring has officially sprung! which means it’s time for a solid Boat cleaning before the new season picks up. If […]

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Spring has officially sprung! which means it’s time for a solid Boat cleaning before the new season picks up.

If you live in a year-round boating climate, consider these tips for seasonal boat cleaning. If you live in the northern part of the country and went to town with a serious scrubbing before pulling your boat for the winter, the task ahead shouldn’t be too involved. A round of deck soap with a healthy scrub and you’ll be ready to drop into the nearest safe harbor. On the other hand, a boat that was stored over the winter months with little more than a hose-down before being covered is likely to require a thorough cleaning.

Generally speaking, it’s easier to do a major clean-up on terra firma than on the water. Choose a place to work where wash water run-off can be effectively controlled. Even “soft” cleaners or those advertised as environmentally friendly can harm marine life. In terms of deck and hull cleaners, it’s a good rule to think of less as being best.

From brand-name solutions to internet concoctions, there’s no shortage of boat cleaning products available. Whether you go store-bought or homemade, keep in mind that more water, less detergent, and extra elbow grease is the safest route to take from an environmental perspective.  If need be, you can always mix up a small amount of extra strong cleaner to be used on a limited basis with stubborn stains, dried-on fish guts, and dirt or grease that just won’t give.

A Boat cleaning session should start by clearing the deck.

These two steps are critical before you begin cleaning your boat:

  1. Remove any items that can’t be stowed away like gear totes and fishing tackle.
  2. Sweep away leaves, dirt, and other debris, and then spray everything down with fresh water.

From there, you’re ready to start on your boat. Pour on some cleaner and start scrubbing with a stiff boat brush. Start at the bow and work toward the transom so that all residue will gather at the stern scuppers. Revisit small areas with a hand-held scrub brush to work on stubborn dirt, grime, and stains. Be aware that some cleaners remove wax. Few have warnings that they will oxidize metals, so think before you slosh and scrub.

One area that is often a sticking point when cleaning is non-skid decking.

The key is to use a stiff-bristle brush or boat broom and scrub in the direction that channels in the non-skid pattern. You want to be scrubbing down the length of the grooves instead of across to ensure the brush bristles reach all the way down to the bottom. If your non-skid deck needs a really deep clean, use a boating cleaner designed specifically for the task.

As for cleaning the outer hull, brand name or homemade solutions all have their followers.

Interestingly, however, toilet cleaners are the latest trend and they have produced some terrific results. The key is leaving them for an appropriate amount of time so be sure to check the manufacturer’s directions. Finally, take to a little polishing to make all the hardware shine.

No matter which products you decide to use, be sure to read and follow all warning labels. Always wear rubber gloves and boots to avoid skin irritation. Lastly, always rinse your craft with freshwater from one end to the other once the cleaning is complete. This avoids any remaining cleaners from stripping wax or damaging the gel coat finish.

Finally, now is the time to inventory everything you keep on board. Did you use it last year? If not, keep it in storage. Survey it all and take this as an opportunity to reduce weight and clutter before you load the boat again.

member benefits beyond 24/7 towing

As the premier leader in on-water boating assistance, Sea Tow members receive the most comprehensive benefits available. Membership includes a full suite of on-water assistance services for every boat you own, rent lease or bareboat charter. Learn more about our membership options today. To find the Sea Tow closest to you, use our service locator or call our Customer Care Team at 800-4-SEATOW.

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