Boating in Connecticut - Connecticut Marine Trades Association
 


Spring Check List



General
  • Do a general cleaning of hull, deck and topsides using a mild detergent

  • Make sure drains and scuppers are clear

  • Put on a good coat of wax

  • Clean and polish metal with a good metal polish

  • Clean teak and oil

  • Clean windows and hatches

  • Clean canvas, bimini and dodger

  • Clean interior including bilges

  • Check spare parts and tools and replace as necessary

  • Make sure registration is current and onboard

  • Check and replace wiper blades if necessary



    Hull
  • Check for hull abrasions, scratches, gouges, etc. and repair

  • Check and replace zincs

  • Check for blisters and refinish is necessary

  • Check rub rails

  • Check swim platform and/or ladder

  • Inspect and test trim tabs

  • Check shaft, cutlass bearing, strut and prop

  • Check rudder and fittings

  • Touch up or replace antifouling paint



    Deck, Fittings, Safety Equipment
  • Check stanchion, pulpits and lifelines for integrity

  • Check ground tackle, lines, fenders, etc.

  • Check chainplates and cleats

  • Check hull/deck joint

  • Check deck, windows, and port lights for leaks

  • Inspect anchor windlass and lubricate

  • Clean and grease winches

  • Check and lubricate blocks, pad eyes, etc.

  • Check dinghy, and life raft



    Below Decks
  • Check, test and lubricate seacocks

  • Check condition of hoses and clamps

  • Make sure below waterline hoses are double clamped

  • Check bilges pumps for automatic and manual operation

  • Check for oil in bilges

  • Check limber holes and make sure they are clear of debris



    Electrical System and Components
  • Check battery water level

  • Check/recharge batteries

  • Check terminals for corrosion, clean and lubricate

  • Check bonding system

  • Inspect all wiring for wear and chafe

  • Test all gauges for operability

  • Check shore power and charger

  • Check for spare fuses

  • Check all lighting fixtures (including navigation lights) and make sure you have spare bulbs

  • Check all electronics for proper operation

  • Inspect antennas



    Required and Recommended Equipment
  • Sound signaling device

  • Check distress signals and expiration date

  • Check Pfds

  • Inspect life rings and cushions

  • Check fire extinguishers and recharge if necessary

  • Check and adjust compass

  • Check navigation lights

  • Check charts and replace as necessary

  • Check radar reflector

  • Check and replace first aid supplies

  • Check bailer and hand pump






  • Inboard Engine(s)
  • Change oil & filters - have spare onboard

  • Check and change fuel filters - have spares onboard

  • Check and change engine zincs

  • Check cooling system change coolant as necessary - have extra onboard

  • Record engine maintenance log, especially date & hours of last oil changes

  • Check belts for tension

  • Check transmission fluid

  • Check and clean backfire flame arrestor

  • Check impeller

  • Check and clean water strainer

  • Check bilge blower



    Mast and Rigging
  • Check mast and spreaders for corrosion or damage

  • Inspect spreader boots and shrouds

  • Inspect rivets and screw connections for corrosion

  • Check reefing points and reefing gear

  • Clean sail track

  • Check rigging, turnbuckles and clevis pins for wear and corrosion

  • Inspect stays for fraying and "fish hooks"

  • Check forestay and backstay connections

  • Check masthead fitting and pulleys

  • Check and lubricate roller furling

  • Check halyards and consider replacing or swapping end for end

  • Tape turnbuckles, cotter pins, and spreaders



    Water System
  • Flush water tank

  • Check water system and pump for leaks and proper operation

  • Check hot water tank working on both AC and engines

  • Check for tank cap keys on board

  • Check and clean shower sump pump screens



    Galley
  • Fill propane tank, check electric & manual valves, check storage box vent to make sure it is clear

  • Check refrigerator, clean and freshen, operate on AC and DC

  • Clean stove, check that all burners and oven are working

  • Check microwave, if fitted



    Outboard Motor
  • Replace spark plugs

  • Check plug wires for wear

  • Check prop for nicks and bends

  • Change/fill gear lube

  • Inspect fuel lines, primer bulb and tank for leaks

  • Lubricate and spray moveable parts



    Trailer
  • Check for current registration

  • Check rollers and pads

  • Check and lubricate wheel bearings

  • Clean and lubricate winch

  • Lubricate tongue jack and wheel

  • Test lights and electrical connections

  • Check tire pressure and condition

  • Check brakes (if equipped)

  • Check safety chains

  • Check tongue lock



    Sails
  • Check general condition

  • Look for wear and chafing

  • Check battens and batten pockets

  • Check all sail attachments

  • Inspect bolt rope



    Head System
  • Checked for smooth operation - lubricate and clean as necessary

  • If equipped with treatment system, have chemicals on hand

  • Y-valve operation checked, valve labeled & secured



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