| Sailboat maintenance may seem like a formidable | | | | fittings and frayed ropes. It may be time for |
| challenge. But let's face it: you've spent the time | | | | replacement of certain items, but without a thorough |
| and money on researching and buying the boat. You're | | | | inspection, you might not notice. Take a few minutes to |
| passionate about the hobby. Repair is just the messy | | | | walk around and inspect. This is a great way to avoid |
| part of the love affair. | | | | damage which could be costly. Keep an eye out for |
| Where to start, you may ask yourself? Proper sailboat | | | | rust, damage, or corrosion. These can be enemies to |
| maintenance will save you a fortune and a lot of | | | | your sailboat and can be prevented with proper |
| heartache when it comes time for repairs. By keeping | | | | maintenance. |
| up with maintenance you can save yourself a lot of | | | | 5) Care for your motor. Motor maintenance is |
| time and money. It also will ensure safety and long | | | | key for keeping your sailboat in tip-top condition. Be |
| term enjoyment of your sailboat. | | | | sure to flush your engine after every trip out onto the |
| Here are a few simple tips on sailboat maintenance: | | | | water, and check your oil levels. |
| 1) Wash your boat regularly. It sounds simple | | | | 6) Keep your electrical parts dry. This is |
| and obvious, but routine cleaning does a world of good | | | | important not only for routine maintenance but for |
| when it comes to maintenance. A good wash will | | | | avoiding safety hazards when out on the water. Many |
| counteract the effects of the environment and the | | | | boating failures occur when electrical systems get wet |
| wear and tear of normal use of your sailboat. | | | | and short out. Make sure your electrical fittings are |
| 2) Make sure your sailboat is docked | | | | water repellent and are not overly worn. |
| properly. Proper mooring can help you avoid damage | | | | 7) Cover your sailboat. A cover is a |
| and scratches. Make sure lines are fastened properly | | | | worthwhile investment in keeping your sailboat |
| and neatly, and make sure that the lines do not show | | | | protected from the elements during the winter months. |
| signs of wear necessitating replacement. | | | | It will also help you avoid pesky damage like bird |
| 3) Check your battery. Just like a car battery, | | | | droppings and other things that can damage your |
| you need to make sure that the battery is in good | | | | investment. |
| condition. You wouldn't drive a car which had been | | | | 8) Store your sailboat in a climate-controlled |
| parked for months at a time without checking your | | | | location. If you have the financial means to do so, this |
| battery charge and fluid levels; your sailboat is no | | | | will save you a fortune on repairs. Maintenance will be |
| different. Maintaining your battery will ensure it is not | | | | a breeze if you can find a reasonable storage location. |
| drained. | | | | Your sailboat is an investment. Engaging in proper |
| 4) Conduct a routine inspection. Pay attention | | | | sailboat maintenance will help you protect your |
| to your sailboat. By walking around it frequently and | | | | investment and keep it in good shape for many |
| observing how it looks, sounds, and feels, you'll learn a | | | | enjoyable years. |
| lot when it comes to routine maintenance. Notice loose | | | | |