Whether you’re planning to sell your boat or simply want it to remain in working order, the right repairs can make all the difference. However, when it comes to making a repair on your boat, there are many factors you should consider. These include:
Personal Value
The first reason you might want to make a repair on your boat is to increase its value. A boat is an expensive piece of equipment, and the last thing you want is to spend money on repairs that will not add any value to your vessel. If you’re planning to sell your boat soon, you may also want to make sure that you don’t shave off too much of the value from your vessel by making too many repairs.
Another reason to make repairs is that they will help your boat perform better. For example, a broken propeller can have a dramatic effect on your engine’s performance. If you have a damaged propeller, you might be able to get more horsepower out of your boat by repairing it.
You’ll need a professional boat repair technician to fix it properly, though. A marine mechanic can evaluate your boat’s condition and advise you on how to fix it, as well as how much it will cost.
Your boat’s electrical system should be regularly inspected and maintained to prevent any problems from occurring. This includes checking the voltage on any electronic devices that use power, such as GPS systems and lights. If you notice that there isn’t enough power, it’s time to call a marine electrician.
No Power
You might think that the issue is simple, but if your boat suddenly doesn’t start or run when you turn the key, it’s probably an indicator that there’s a bigger problem. In this case, it’s a good idea to check for the source of the power problem by using a multimeter to determine whether there’s any voltage.
The multimeter is a must have for every boater, especially since basic units can be found for under $10. You can even purchase a light pen-type voltage tester to test your electronic devices, but these won’t be able to tell you exactly how much voltage is going to the device.
Steering Wheel Not Working
A common boat problem is a steering wheel that won’t work or turns in the wrong direction. If this occurs, it’s a sign that the steering mechanism needs to be repaired or replaced.
Often, this problem is caused by poor maintenance or an older model that’s not designed to hold up over time. A good boat repair technician can quickly identify the cause and replace the unit if necessary.
Propeller Replacement
A boat’s propeller is one of the most critical components on any vessel. It’s important to keep it in top shape by checking for wear and tear, replacing nicks or scratches and keeping it free of debris that can cause damage.
Other areas of your boat that need to be tended to are the fuel system and the water tank. Both of these systems need to be kept topped off with fuel and properly cleaned. You should also check the water separator and filter to ensure that they’re functioning properly.