BoatU.S. (Boat Owners Association of the United States) is a non-profit recreational boating advocacy organization that promotes the interests of boaters throughout the country. Because of its large membership base, this group can offer many insights into vessel maintenance. Using their commissioning checklist is one way to prevent spring sinkings.
BoatU.S. Spring Commissioning Checklist
This is a recap of the BoatU.S. checklist that can viewed in its entirety at the organization’s Seaworthy publication website. Owner experiences and local operating conditions may create additional items of interest.
Before Launching
- Inspect, lubricate and exercise seacocks or the valves connected to thru-hull fittings. Inspect and replace corroded or failed hose clamps. Consider doubling up on hose clamps and use those that are marine tested and made of stainless steel.
- Check for stiff, swelled or cracked rubber hoses.
- Replace deteriorated anodes or zincs. Recycle or dispose of these properly.
- Check condition of the propeller and propeller shaft. Using a garden hose, check for leaks around weather tight doors and hatches.
- Once launched, check all thru-hull fittings for leakage.
Engine Outdrives and Outboards
- Inspect outdrive bellows for cracks or bad spots that could cause leaks.
- Check fluid levels for power steering and trim systems.
- Replace deteriored anodes or zincs on outdrives or outboard lower units.
- Check the condition of control cable jackets. Corrosion can cause swelling or cracks that are a sign the cable should be replaced.
Engines and Fuel Systems
- Check the condition of all fuel lines onboard. These include filling hoses, tank vent hoses and hoses connecting the fuel tank to the engine. If the boat uses ethanol blended fuel, be sure fuel lines are rated for use with alcohol.
- Check for fuel leaks. Trouble points can include points where hoses are clamped, around filter gaskets and fuel pumps.
- Removal and inspection of exhaust manifold for corrosion is recommended on a two or three year basis.
- Inspect and clean battery and electrical connections. Check battery fluid levels.
- Inspect the condition of flexible bilge blower hoses.
Sailboat Rigging
- Check stays for frayed wire strands and swaged cable fittings for corrosion.
- Clean and lubricate turnbuckles. Apply a layer of protective tape to them.
- If there is a suspicion that chainplates are allowing moisture into decks or sidedecks, remove the chainplate to visually inspect it.
Boat Trailers
- Check the condition, pressure and remaining tread left on tires and include the space tire.
- Inspect trailer wheel bearing and repack them if needed.
- Check trailer and tow vehicle lighting. Inspect the boat trailer for rust and corrosion.
- Check the condition of bunks and sideboards.
- Inspect brake systems and their fluid levels.
The BoatU.S. commissioning checklist covers a number of additional miscellaneous items like onboard safety gear, bilge and float switches and legal requirements. Adopt this checklist and modify it to meet local needs. Consider getting a Vessel Safety Check from the Coast Guard Auxiliary. A little care now will prevent much greater problems in the future.
Alan Sorum - Alan Sorum is the Maritime Operations Project Manager for the Prince William Sound Regional Citizens' Advisory Council (PWSRCAC). Alan is ...
