As a new or aspiring boat owner, do you feel intimidated by all the maintenance involved in boat ownership? Boat maintenance can be demanding work, but when you make it part of your routine, it becomes a lot easier! Of course, you can also take advantage of the professional services we offer at Clark Marine. Our service team can handle all your boat maintenance and repair needs, so you can focus on the fun aspects of boat ownership.

We created this guide to help you become more familiar with the basics of boat maintenance. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us! Clark Marine is your local boat dealer in Manchester, ME, serving customers from Naples, Waterford, and Oxford.

First Steps

When you first purchase a new boat, make sure to read the owner’s manual from cover to cover. This volume will provide you with detailed, specific information about operating and maintaining your specific boat model. It should include a troubleshooting guide, as well as a service schedule that indicates how often to perform each maintenance task. Remember to keep the owner’s manual stored on your boat for future reference! 

Regular Maintenance

Regular, preventive maintenance is essential to keeping your boat in good condition. For instance, you should always give your boat a complete maintenance inspection before each use. During your inspection, make sure to check the engine fluids, including the oil, fuel, and coolant, and examine the hull and propeller for signs of wear and tear. You should also flush your boat motor after each use to remove salt and other contaminants.

Cleaning and detailing your boat are also important maintenance tasks that should not be overlooked. In addition to giving your boat a neater appearance, regular cleaning will prevent mold, mildew, and corrosion from harming the surfaces of your boat.

Repairs

If your boat needs repair, you should postpone your boating plans until the repairs are complete. Even small maintenance issues can worsen over time, leading to expensive repair bills. Addressing these issues as soon as possible will lower your maintenance costs and extend the lifespan of your boat. When you need a helping hand with boat repairs, call Clark Marine in Manchester, ME! We are committed to supporting our customers with quality maintenance and repair services.