The latest installment, http://speedonthewater.com/in-the-ne...ct-religiously.

When it comes to safety, attention to small detail is crucial.

So true...

Lost a tie bar once coming on plane, not pretty.(the nut fell off the bolt) Thank got I wasnt up on plane at speed - i'd be dead.

Thanks for chiming in, Keith. Additional real-world stories likes yours do so much to bring home the points that Tres Martin makes.

I found a split high-pressure fuel line while performing the sniff test after refueling. "Sammy Safety"...

Also once found the cap off of the water flush fitting, and the engine seacock shut. Not necessarily a safety concern, but replacing impellers is a pain in the ass.

^^^As did I...

nothing screams danger like high pressure gasoline mist in a bilge!

Thanks Chuck and Nuke. You know, this could become a pretty interesting—and useful—thread if people keep posting some of the not-so-good things they've discovered in "pre-flight" inspections.

I give the cat a pre-flight religiously . A walk-around while still on the trailer to inspect the hull and drive assembly . I open the engine hatch before firing and do a sniff test then check for any fluid leaks . Upon firing up the engine I run my fingers around every fuel line connection , check fuel pressure then check again for any leaking fluids . Over the years this routine has saved many boating days from turning to chit . Just treat your equipment as if it were an airplane because we all know what happens if something turns to chit up there .

I kind of half-assed my inspections before...I think I'm going to get quite a bit more serious after these stories!

One time during Pre flight inspection I noticed my skank forgot my Crown Royal Black!!
Unbelievable!

Also, I once climbed into my boat to find Matt Trulio sitting there. A life-changing experience, for sure....