Offshoreonly.com - Spring Launch Check List

I got this via email the other day and thought it was a nice list for thos eof us about to pull our boats out from winter storage! :D

Spring Launch Checklist

To help boaters have a trouble-free summer boating season, BoatU.S., the nation's largest recreational boating association, has a spring commissioning checklist. Whether you have an inboard or outboard, following this checklist is an easy way to get ready for the boating season.

BEFORE YOU LAUNCH:
· Inspect and lubricate seacocks. Hoses and hose clamps should be inspected and replaced as necessary.
· Replace deteriorated zincs.
· Inspect prop(s) for dings, pitting and distortion. Make sure cotter pins are secure. Grip the prop and try moving the shaft - if it's loose, the cutlass bearing may need to be replaced.
· Check to make sure the rudderstock hasn't been bent.
· Inspect the hull for blisters, distortions and stress cracks.
· Make sure your engine intake sea strainer is free of corrosion and properly secured.
· Check the engine shaft and rudder stuffing boxes for looseness. After the boat is launched, be sure to check these as well as through-hulls for leaks.
· Use a hose to check for deck leaks at ports and hatches. Renew caulk or gaskets as necessary.
· If equipped, ensure that stern drain plug is installed.

OUTDRIVES and OUTBOARD ENGINES:
· Inspect rubber outdrive bellows for cracked, dried and/or deteriorated spots (look especially in the folds), and replace if suspect.
· Check power steering and power trim oil levels. Replace worn-out zincs.
· Inspect outer jacket of control cables. Cracks or swelling indicate corrosion and mean that the cable has to be replaced.
· Inspect fuel lines, including fill and vent hoses, for softness, brittleness or cracking. Check all joints for leaks and make sure all lines are well supported with non-combustible clips or straps with smooth edges.

ENGINES AND FUEL SYSTEMS:
· Inspect fuel tanks, fuel pumps and filters for leaks. Clamps should be snug and free of rust. Clean fuel filters.
· Inspect cooling hoses and fittings for stiffness, rot, leaks and/or cracking. Make sure they fit snugly and are double-clamped.
· Every few years, remove and inspect exhaust manifold for corrosion.
· Clean and tighten electrical connections, especially both ends of battery cables. Wire-brush battery terminals and fill cells with distilled water.
· Inspect bilge blower hose for leaks.

TRAILERS:
· Inspect tire treads and sidewalls for cracks or lack of tread and replace as necessary. Check air pressure. Don't forget the spare!
· Inspect bearings and repack as necessary.
· Test tail and back-up lights. Test winch to make sure it's working properly.
· Inspect trailer frame for rust. Sand and paint to prevent further deterioration.

MISCELLANEOUS:
· Check expiration dates on flares and fire extinguishers.
· Check stove and remote tanks for loose fittings and leaking hoses.
· Inspect bilge pump and float switch to make sure it's working properly.
· Inspect dock and anchor lines for chafing.
· Update or replace old charts, waterway guides.
· Check shore power cable connections for burns, which indicates the cable needs to be replaced.
· Make sure your boating license and/or registration is up-to-date. Don't forget your trailer tags.
· Review your boat insurance policy and update coverage if needed. Be sure you have fuel spill insurance coverage.
· Make sure you have a properly sized and wearable life jackets in good condition for each passenger, including kids and pets.

Courtsey of BoatU.S.