Boat Maintenance

Water Pump Impellers
Inspection of water pump impellers for signs of aging, such as rust and cracks.  Rubber impellers can dry and crack over time.  If a piece of rubber breaks of an impeller, it can cause your boat to overheat.

Prop Shaft
A propeller shaft should be regularly examined to confirm that it turns freely.  A shaft which turns very stiffly could signal problems with engine mounts, strut, bent shaft or engine’s alignment.

Engine Hoses
All engine hoses should be periodically checked for cracked. Hoses showing sign of wearing should be replaced.

Propeller Shaft Stuffing Box
Inspection of the propeller shaft stuffing box for signs of leakage.  Wear and tear, or improper adjustment can result in leaking of the adjustable stuffing box.  Improper alignment of the engine can cause damage to the dripless stuffing box seals. Proper inspection of the stuffing boxes should be conducted while docked and while in the water.  A non-detected leak could cause your boat to sink!

Fuel System
If you have an inboard engine, open the engine compartment.  There should be no fuel smell.  If you smell fuel, there is a a leak on the engine.  Leakage can occur around fuel lines, fuel filters, carburetors and fuel tank fittings.  If you smell fuel immediately contact a qualified marine repair shop to inspect your boat for leaks.

Manifolds and Exhaust Riser
Inspect your inboard engine’s exhaust risers and manifolds for leakage.  Leaking exhaust risers can allow water to seep into the engine.  Rust stains and corrosion on the exhaust risers and exhaust manifolds are also evidence of a leak.  While the risers and manifolds permit a small amount of leakage due to their metal parts expanding and shrinking when they heat and cool, anything excessive is worth investigating further.  Boat manufacturers recommend periodically replacing the exhaust risers and manifolds to guard against leaking.

Universal joints, shift cables, and exhaust bellows
Check the U-joint, shift cable and exhaust bellows on outdrives and replace as needed.  U-joints and the rubber bellows that protect the u-joint, shift cable and exhaust bellows are subject to wear and tear.  They will gradually deteriorate causing leaking and possible sinking.  The rubber bellows can also be damaged by debris in the water and animals.  Periodic inspection of the rubber parts could save your boat.