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Published: Monday, Mar. 19, 2012 / Updated: Monday, Mar. 19, 2012 02:41 PM

Brad Harvey: Proper boat prep makes for smooth sailing

With temperatures jumping above the 80-degree mark, it can mean only one thing - the boating season is fast approaching.

With a little bit of time and effort, or out-of-pocket expense, a pre-season maintenance check can go a long way toward ensuring a more pleasurable summer.

Many boaters pay a mechanic to do it, but you can do it, too.

The Boat Owners Association of the United States offers the following “Springtime Commissioning Checklist.”

Before Launching

• Inspect, lubricate and exercise seacocks, or the valves connected to thru-hull fittings. Inspect and replace corroded or failed hose clamps. Consider doubling up on hose clamps and use marine tested, made of stainless steel.

• Check for stiff, swelled or cracked rubber hoses.

• Replace deteriorated anodes or zincs. Recycle or dispose properly.

• Check condition of the propeller and propeller shaft. Using a garden hose, check for leaks around weather tight doors and hatches.

• Once launched, check all thru-hull fittings for leakage.

Engine Outdrives and Outboards

• Inspect outdrive bellows for cracks or spots that could cause leaks.

• Check fluid levels for power steering and trim systems.

• Replace deteriorated anodes or zincs on outdrives or outboard lower units.

• Check the condition of control cable jackets. Cracks are a sign the cable should be replaced.

Engines and Fuel Systems

• Check the condition of all fuel lines onboard. If the boat uses ethanol blended fuel, be sure fuel lines are rated for use with alcohol.

• Check for fuel leaks. Trouble points can include points where hoses are clamped, around filter gaskets and fuel pumps.

• Removal and inspection of exhaust manifold for corrosion is recommended on a two- or three-year basis.

• Inspect and clean battery and electrical connections. Check battery fluid levels.

• Inspect the condition of flexible bilge blower hoses.

Sailboat Rigging

• Check stays for frayed wire strands and swaged cable fittings for corrosion.

• Clean and lubricate turnbuckles. Apply a layer of protective tape.

• Remove the chain plate to inspect it for moisture into decks or side decks.

Boat Trailers

• Check tires, wheel bearings and vehicle lighting. .

• Inspect trailer wheel bearings and repack them if needed.

• Check trailer and tow vehicle lighting. Inspect the boat trailer for rust and corrosion.

• Check bunks and sideboards condition.

• Inspect brake systems and fluid levels.

Brad Harvey is a freelance writer in Clover. bradharveyoutdoors.com .