Today was a good one to do some routine maintenance on the boat, outboard and trailer. Here is a checklist of most of the things I do to mine. I know many of you do your own upkeep like changing engine/foot oil, filters, etc. and some of you are more advanced with replacing impellers and more. But I thought this might be a good start and an aid for those who are new skiff owners or others who want to save some bucks on routine service charges and avoid down time in the future.
- Check trailer tire pressure, including spare, and inflate accordingly. Inspect all tires for cracks/dry rot.
- Add waterproof grease to the trailer hub bearings
- Grease outboard fittings
- Pull outboard prop to inspect for line/debris. Clean and re-grease shaft splines. Tighten shaft nut and install a new cotter pin, if applicable.
- Pull trolling motor prop and inspect for line/debris (if applicable). Grease shaft and re-assemble.
- Check trolling motor shear pin for integrity/rust and carry spares
- Check trolling motor remote control battery and carry spares
- Add dielectric grease to the trolling motor electrical plug
- Tighten all battery connections. If not already installed, use lock washers and stainless nuts for safe, solid connections.
- Clean trolling motor circuit breaker connections and ensure they are tight (if applicable)
- Spray electrical panel/circuit boards with Bioshield, Corrosion X or another corrosion inhibitor
- Wipe down engine with damp rag/fresh water. After it dries, spray with corrosion inhibitor
- Check connections on battery selector switch
- Check all trailer lights for proper illumination
- Inspect and spray as needed transom straps like Boat Buckles
- Inspect winch strap and safety chain for rot, connection
- Wipe and spray lubricant on the trailer jack and hitch connection
- Check and tighten if needed all hatch hardware
- Inspect and replace any accessories, like engine kill switch lanyards, push pole holders/bungees
- Check cables and connection of fishfinder/GPS. Inspect cradles/mounts for integrity
- Check operation of navigation lights and bilge/livewell pumps
- Check battery voltage
- Inspect fuel primer bulb and fuel line for cracks or dry rot
- Empty all hatches and clean
At least annually:
- Inspect and confirm compliance of all safety gear/emergency flares, fire extinguisher, life jackets, etc.
- Change fuel water separator filter
- Change lower unit oil and drain plug seals
- Inspect hull, deck and platforms for chips, stress cracks, soft spots
- Jack each trailer wheel off the ground and spin for bearings/tightness check