Obviously, the check lists that you will go through on a boat are not as comprehensive as that of an airplane, but they are still important. Here's a list of some things that you should check on a regular basis to ensure that you and your passengers will have a fun and safe boating experience. Some may say that these can be over kill, but there all good things to base your checklist off of.
Oil level - check this every other trip. The oil level will not quickly change unless you can smell burning oil. For a two stroke, check at the beginning of each and every trip. I like to recommend topping off the two stroke oil at the beginning of every trip. If you choose not to top it off, at least keep some backup on board. Later I'll explain what the back up can be used for.
Fuel Level - many boats do not have a visible fuel tank, but if yours does, take a look at it and see if the gauge matches up with the level in the tank, or at least close. I like to fill my tank any time they drop below 3/4. This ensures that there is always fresh gas and that you will always have plenty. With my jet ski, I top it off every trip on the way to the ramp.
Drain Plug - don't forget it, please. If you keep your boat in a marina, it should already be in, if you trailer you probably took it out at the end of the lasts trip. A good thing to do when you get to the ramp is to put it in right away, the very first thing. Here's a great way to double check the plug. Walk from the tow vehicle to the stern of the boat and remove the transom straps and hang them on the hooks, check the drain plug. Leave the straps in place and walk around the passenger (starboard) side of the boat just to check everything, walk back around the back to get the straps you removed,check the drain plug again, go back to the tow vehicle and continue on. If you ever forget this step, you will get that weird "sinking" feeling that is so dreaded. On top of that, you will get some funny looks from those on the ramp when you are rushing back in and cutting in line with your trailer. When avid boater see that happening, we all know what you did, you can't hide it.
Pressures and Charges - Once you have launched and have the engine warming up, take a quick look at all of your gauges, make sure everything is "in the green". Your alternator should be charging, you water pressure should be steady and in a acceptable position, your fuel tank should have an acceptable amount of fuel, oil pressure should be steady, and your trim should be down. Not all boats will have this many gauges, then again some will. Just make sure that everything you have the ability to monitor is working correctly.
Safety Gear - It should go without being said since the lack there of would result in a pricey ticket. Make sure that you have enough life jackets for everybody on board as well as everything that is required per the laws of the state you are in. If you have any guests on your boat that are not familiar with the layout, be sure that you tell them where the life jackets are located if they choose not to wear one. Though it is not required in most states on a boat for individuals over a given age, I always offer life jackets to my passengers just in case. Some people like the added security of wearing it, some like to just have it next to them, and others just think that it is fashionable.
Lets Get Going - Go ahead, start your day. For the first few minutes of idling out of the docks and then coming up on plane, take things slowly just to be sure that everything is functioning correctly and that there are not any unusual noises or feelings. Once your feel comfortable, let her go.
Pressures and Charges - Once you have launched and have the engine warming up, take a quick look at all of your gauges, make sure everything is "in the green". Your alternator should be charging, you water pressure should be steady and in a acceptable position, your fuel tank should have an acceptable amount of fuel, oil pressure should be steady, and your trim should be down. Not all boats will have this many gauges, then again some will. Just make sure that everything you have the ability to monitor is working correctly.
Safety Gear - It should go without being said since the lack there of would result in a pricey ticket. Make sure that you have enough life jackets for everybody on board as well as everything that is required per the laws of the state you are in. If you have any guests on your boat that are not familiar with the layout, be sure that you tell them where the life jackets are located if they choose not to wear one. Though it is not required in most states on a boat for individuals over a given age, I always offer life jackets to my passengers just in case. Some people like the added security of wearing it, some like to just have it next to them, and others just think that it is fashionable.
Lets Get Going - Go ahead, start your day. For the first few minutes of idling out of the docks and then coming up on plane, take things slowly just to be sure that everything is functioning correctly and that there are not any unusual noises or feelings. Once your feel comfortable, let her go.
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