New boat owners - what you should know.

[rmaytee]

I tried searching but I never saw any topics that would be helpful.

I have owned a couple boats in the bast of a couple different varieties. I would love to hear some things you do to keep you boat running properly, and according to Manufacturers suggestions, etc. Yes, even basic upkeep that seems obvious to some, may not even be thought of by others. These are listed in no particular order, they are added as ideas come to me or people add suggestions.


1. Check the plug, check the plug, check the plug!! Even if you always leave the plug in, CHECK THE PLUG! You never know when someone has decided to be helpful by pulling the plug for you.

2. Wipe down after EVERY use with vinegar and water - 1 cup of vinegar to 1 gallon of water.

3. Check trailer tire pressure every time you pull the boat. Those 3 minutes could save you thousands in repairs. A simple kick of the tires and spot checking that the lugs are all on tightly is also a good idea.

4. Wipe down vinyl regularly to prevent staining. First wipe wet upholstery down while you are using the boat. When finished, use a mild detergent (such as a couple of drops of dish soap) and water to wipe down the seats. Many things contribute to stained upholstery, such as sunblock.

5. Open teat, ski lockers and other compartments to help air out the boat.

6. Pulling the boat- take care for dips and bumps, and be mindful of the guard under the rudder. And obviously, take turns wide, then sharply into your lane to prevent curb hopping or even worse.



My close friend just purchased a 2005 Supra Launch 21V. This is his first boat ever, so I'm sure he's going to need some help understanding how to best care for his boat.

Here are some specifics that I'm not sure about:

1. When is it best to run the blower and turn it off?

2. Is it best to check the oil when hot or cold?

3. Ballast specific questions:
a- can I fill the ballast when underway, or is it best to be sitting still?
b- same question regarding emptying?
c- Is there anything additional (other than flipping the switch) I need to do to use the factory ballast system such as venting, closing/opening valves etc?

4. Anything I should know about Perfect Pass?

Thanks for all the suggestions. We are hitting the lake tomorrow, so any suggestions would be helpful.

[Suprahunter]

Using vinegar will also remove wax. I used 30% white vinegar for wipe down when I lived up north in lakes with hard water. Here in GA its not needed.

Run the blowers before starting and whenever moving below 5 mph.

Check all fluids before starting.

I always put my boat away ready to come out. Before leaving the ramp Interior and exterior are thoroughly cleaned and wiped down. When we get home all hatches and storage compartments are open to dry out.

You cant be too anal about cleanliness and maintenance.

[cadunkle]

You don't want to be "that guy", please don't power turn.

[rmaytee]

[Okie Boarder]

I'd agree being careful with the vinegar and water. Try using a product that is meant to clean and protect. Some sort of quick detailer or something like Babe's Boat Bright will probably work a little better.

I run my blowers before starting and tend to leave them running quite a bit when wakeboarding due to the stops and starts and operating at low speeds picking riders back up fairly frequently.

[Nor*Cal]

Pick up your state's boating laws and probably take a coast guard approved class. In addition don't power turn to pick up your rider unless they are in danger. Instead throttle back, allow the wake to pass you then idle back to the rider.