Summer is right around the corner and it’s time to get your boat ready to hit the water. Following these key steps to get your boat prepared will help ensure you’re set for a smooth, stress-free ride. If you’ve already had your boat serviced by Current Watersports, you’re in good shape, as we’ve already handled the essentials to make sure you’re ready to go. But if you haven’t, here’s what you’ll need to check before hitting the lake.
If You’ve Had Your Boat Serviced by Us
At Current Watersports, we take care of all the necessary maintenance to get your boat ready for the season. Here’s what we’ve included during your service:
- Checked engine oil and transmission fluid
- Washed the boat and trailer
- Wiped down the interior
- Vacuumed the carpet
- Cleaned the windows
- Checked trailer tire pressure
- Checked trailer lug nut torque
- Applied tire dressing
- Turned the battery switch off
If you’ve had your boat serviced with us this winter, you’re almost ready for the water!
Preparing Your Boat For The Water
Even if your boat has been serviced, there are still a few things you’ll want to check before launching. Following these simple checks will help ensure everything runs smoothly so you can enjoy your time on the water.
1. Annual Maintenance
Ensure all essential maintenance is up to date, including oil changes and impeller checks. This helps avoid issues on the water and keeps your engine running at peak performance.
2. Check the Batteries
Make sure the batteries are fully charged and properly hooked up.
3. Install Plugs
Always double-check that the drain plug and engine plugs are installed. This is a crucial step to avoid water damage and ensure your boat is properly sealed.
4. Check Fluid Levels
Inspect your engine system for fluid, oil, and coolant levels. If needed, top up the fluids to ensure your engine runs smoothly throughout the day.
5. Trailer Inspection
Before hitting the road, do a quick trailer inspection to ensure everything is in working order:
- Tire pressure is correct for safe towing.
- Lug nut torque is secure.
- Trailer lights are functioning properly for visibility.
6. Clean the Boat
Give your boat a quick clean to remove any dirt or grime that might have accumulated. Applying a coat of wax helps protect the exterior and keeps your boat looking great all season long.
7. Bilge Inspection
Check the bilge to ensure it’s clean and free of debris. This helps maintain the boat’s drainage system and ensures that everything works as it should.
Start-Up Checklist
Here is a start-up procedure checklist for your first day launching:
- Connect battery cables to CORRECT battery house making sure to tighten terminal nuts WITH WRENCH (only hand tightening will cause issues, please make sure these are tight!).
- Confirm battery voltage (Minimum of 12 volts).
- INSTALL BOAT DRAIN PLUG & back boat into water, keeping it on the trailer.
- Turn on Battery Switch.
- Key on Boat (do not start the engine yet).
- Open engine hatch.
- Remove side panels to access both sides of the engine.
- Confirm everything is connected (no loose hoses / dangling hoses).
- Start engine.
- Re-check the engine compartment on all sides of the engine, front, back, and both sides for water leaks.
- Let engine run on trailer until it reaches normal operating temperature (130 up to a maximum of 180)
- If everything checks out, re-install the engine, close out panels, unload the boat from the trailer and have fun!
Why Service with Current Watersports?
At Current Watersports, we’re dedicated to ensuring your boat is ready for an unforgettable summer on the water. As avid boaters ourselves, we understand how important it is to take time away from our busy lives to enjoy the lake. That’s why we provide the highest level of service to get your boat in top shape for the season. Our goal is simple: once you’re on the water, it’s all about having fun and enjoying a fun, stress-free summer. Our expert technicians ensure that your boat stays in peak condition, so you can focus on enjoying your time on the water. Whether it’s routine maintenance or seasonal services, we’ve got you covered.
We proudly service a wide range of top boat brands, including:
- MasterCraft
- Malibu & Axis Boats
- Nautique Boats
- Cobalt Boats
- Supra / Moomba
- Centurion
- Crest Pontoons
Service Items Available:
- Oil changes and transmission maintenance
- Seasonal services like winterizations
- Trailer maintenance
- Engine tune-ups and repairs
- Factory and warranty repairs
- Ceramic coating and boat detailing
If you have any questions or need your boat serviced, give Current Watersports a call or swing by any of our three locations.