Essential Boating Maintenance Items You Might Overlook

Nothing ruins a great day on the water like an unexpected problem. These items may seem minor but can have a significant impact on your boating experience if neglected. Here are a few essential boating maintenance items that you might overlook:

Trailer Wheel Lug Nuts-  A burned wheel baring is the number one reason for a broken trailer or the inability to change a flat due to lug nuts becoming stuck. Loosen and retighten your lug nuts semiannually or annually especially in brackish or saltwater. 

Trailer Draw Bars- If the drawbar and the receiver get corroded, they may become stuck and difficult to detach. To prevent this, remove the drawbar after each use and make sure to clean it thoroughly with fresh water. Additionally, we suggest applying a light coat of lubricant a few times during each boating season.

Canvas Snaps-  Dealing with snaps is far from one of the most exciting aspects of boating but these small but mighty boat parts are important to keeping your boat in good condition. Saltwater, grime, and debris can corrode and jam snaps over time. After outings rinse the snaps with fresh water. Lubrication is another important step in maintaining canvas boat snaps. This helps in easy snapping and unsnapping, and prevents the metal from corroding. Should corrosion happen, most snaps can be easily replaced with basic tools. 

Zippers- Similar to snaps, zippers can create problems if not maintained correctly. Zipper malfunctions can result in exposure to the elements for your boat or even damage to your canvas if they become stuck. It is crucial to maintain your zippers properly to ensure they remain in good condition. To care for your zippers, routinely check for any wear or damage, use a soft brush to clean the zippers and remove any dirt or debris that could be causing them to stick. Applying a silicone-based lubricant can help keep the zippers operating smoothly.

Ski Pylons- Over time your boats Ski Pylons can also become stuck or the plastic sheath can become malformed. To regularly maintain check for any signs of wear or damage on the pylons and the surrounding areas. Consider applying a lubricant to keep them moving smoothly. Additionally, you can use a plastic-safe cleaner to remove any debris or dirt that may be causing the plastic sheath to become misshapen.

Outrigger Poles - Outriggers can commonly get stuck in there bases. By taking the time to remove and clean the outriggers, you can ensure that any accumulation of sand, salt, or grit is eliminated. This simple practice not only helps in keeping the outriggers functioning smoothly but also prolongs their lifespan, allowing you to enjoy years of fishing.