Get Your Boat Started After Sitting Idle

Starting a boat motor that has been sitting for a long time can be challenging, but with the right steps, you can get it running smoothly again. It is crucial to perform a thorough inspection and necessary maintenance to ensure the boat's safety and functionality. This includes checking the fuel system for any blockages or leaks, inspecting and replacing spark plugs, and ensuring proper lubrication by changing the oil and oil filter. Other important steps involve preparing the motor by checking fluid levels, connections, wiring, and hoses, as well as ensuring a fully charged battery. Taking these precautions will help you start your boat successfully and avoid potential issues or damage to the engine.

Check the fuel system for leaks and blockages

Checking the fuel system for leaks and blockages is an important step in ensuring the safety and proper functioning of your boat. Here are some detailed instructions to guide you through the process:

• Identify Signs of Fuel Leaks: Start by opening up the bilge, the lowest point in your boat, and check for any signs of fuel. A strong smell of fuel, either gasoline or diesel, is often the first indication of a fuel leak. Be vigilant, as even tiny pinpoints or leaks can lead to more serious issues over time.
• Inspect for Symptoms of a Bad Fuel Line: A bad fuel line can cause engine performance issues, such as difficulty starting, frequent stalling, or a sudden drop in RPMs. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's crucial to investigate further.
• Check for Actual Fuel Leaks: The most serious symptom of a bad fuel line is the presence of visible fuel in the bilge. If you suspect a fuel leak, act quickly to reduce risks and prevent environmental damage. Open all hatches to create airflow and disperse fuel vapors, and turn off the fuel valves to help isolate the problem.
• Contain the Spill: Do not use your bilge pump to empty the bilge if it contains fuel. Instead, use absorbent pads or kitchen paper towels to soak up the fuel and dispose of it properly at a specialized hazardous-waste disposal site.
• Visual Inspection: Conduct a thorough visual inspection of the fuel system. Check fuel lines, hoses, clamps, fittings, and connections for any signs of damage, decay, or leaks. Look for tiny pinpoints or cracks that may be emitting fuel vapors.
• Pressure Drop and Soap Test: Perform a pressure drop and soap test on the fuel tank to detect holes or leaks. This test can be technically challenging and may require a technician's assistance. It involves building a DIY pressure testing tool and applying approximately 1 to 2 psi of pressure.
• Temporary Clear Lines: Install temporary clear lines from the fuel tank to the pump and filter. This will allow you to easily observe any air bubbles or fuel leaks in the system.
• Portable Fuel Can: As an alternative to pressurizing the fuel system, use a portable fuel can to connect directly to the engine. If the engine runs smoothly with the temporary fuel source, you can conclude that the issue lies within the boat's fuel system.
• Systematic Isolation: Keep the portable fuel can connected and gradually work your way back towards the tank, splicing the fuel supply at each connection. This will help you pinpoint the exact location of the problem.
• Check Fuel Tank: If the fuel tank is suspected to be the source of the problem, inspect it thoroughly. Look for cracks, holes, or other signs of damage. Ensure that the fuel uptake pipe in the tank is intact and free of blockages, especially if the fuel level was low when issues occurred.

Remember, fuel leaks can have serious consequences, so it's important to address them promptly and seek expert advice if needed.

Inspect and replace spark plugs if necessary

Inspecting and replacing your boat's spark plugs is a critical aspect of boat ownership. Spark plugs play a vital role in ensuring your gas-powered inboard or outboard engine runs smoothly and efficiently. They supply the spark that ignites the air-fuel mixture, creating an explosion that powers your boat's engine. Regularly inspecting and replacing spark plugs is an easy way to improve engine performance and ensure peace of mind when out on the water.

Inspection

When inspecting your spark plugs, it's important to look for any signs of damage or deterioration. Check for issues such as cracked insulators, damaged electrodes, corrosion, or any other irregularities. Additionally, the colour of the insulator firing nose can provide valuable information about your engine's health. A light tan or grey firing nose indicates optimal performance, while dark colour deposits, either wet or dry, suggest an overly rich operating condition. If the deposits are wet, it could be a sign of a failed head gasket, oil control issues, or an extremely rich operating state.

Replacement

Before replacing spark plugs, it's essential to disconnect the battery from the engine to prevent the possibility of electric shocks. Ensure your engine is cold, as spark plugs can get very hot. Work on one spark plug at a time to avoid confusion with the spark plug wires. Start by locating the spark plugs in the engine, typically attached to the cylinder head. Remove the spark plug wire by gently grasping the rubber boot near the spark plug and twisting it while pulling upward. Avoid pulling on the wire itself to prevent damage. Use a socket wrench with the correct socket size to loosen and remove the spark plug.

When installing the new spark plugs, examine them for any signs of damage. Check the gap between the centre and ground electrode with a gap gauge and adjust if necessary. Thread the new spark plug carefully into the engine cylinder head by hand, ensuring it turns smoothly and doesn't cross-thread. Use the socket wrench to tighten the spark plug securely, being careful not to overtighten it. Reattach the spark plug wire, pressing down firmly until it is fully seated and you hear or feel a slight click.

Maintenance

It is recommended to inspect your spark plugs annually or every 100 hours of operation, replacing them if they are fouled, damaged, or every 300 hours. Regular spark plug replacement offers several benefits, including improved power and performance, fuel efficiency, reliability, and extended engine longevity. Additionally, fresh spark plugs contribute to a cleaner, more environmentally friendly engine by reducing emissions.

Prepare the motor: check fluids, connections, wiring and hoses

To prepare the motor for starting, you must ensure all the fluids are topped up and all connections are secure and tight. This includes the battery, which should be fully charged before attempting to start the engine. If the battery is weak or dead, it may not be able to provide enough power for ignition and could cause serious damage to the engine.

Check all the wiring and hoses for any signs of wear or damage. If anything looks out of place, replace it before attempting to start the engine. This is a crucial step as any issues with wiring and hoses can cause serious problems down the line.

Inspect the spark plugs and replace them if they are worn or damaged. This will help ensure your engine is getting the proper spark needed for ignition. If your spark plugs are in good condition, make sure they are correctly gapped according to the manufacturer's specifications.

It is also important to check the fuel system. Ensure all the fuel lines are in good condition and free of any blockages or leaks. If there are any issues, address them before attempting to start the motor. Additionally, check the fuel filter and replace it if necessary.

Finally, check the oil and oil filter. If they were not changed before the boat was stored away, they should be changed now. If they were changed, the oil and filter from the fall should still be okay. Remember, clean oil is gold or amber in colour, while dirty oil is black. Only run your boat with clean oil.

Ensure the battery is fully charged

To start a boat after it has been sitting for a long time, it is crucial to ensure that the battery is fully charged. A weak or dead battery may not provide sufficient power for ignition, potentially causing severe damage to the engine. Before attempting to start the engine, it is essential to verify that the battery is in optimal condition.

One way to ensure a fully charged battery is to invest in a marine battery charger. This device is specifically designed to replenish the power in marine batteries, ensuring that your battery is ready for the next outing. It is a worthwhile investment for boat owners, as it can help maintain the battery's health and extend its lifespan.

Additionally, it is important to check the battery connections. Ensure that all connections are secure and tight, as any loose connections can lead to reduced power transmission and potential electrical issues. A thorough inspection of the battery terminals and cables can help identify any signs of corrosion or damage, which may hinder the battery's performance.

Furthermore, it is advisable to keep the battery well-maintained by regularly cleaning the terminals. Over time, corrosion or residue can build up on the terminals, impeding the flow of electricity. By using a wire brush or a specialised cleaning solution, you can remove any accumulated residue, ensuring optimal electrical conductivity and enhancing the battery's performance.

Another aspect to consider is the age of the battery. Even when fully charged, an older battery may not hold its charge as effectively as a newer one. If you notice that your battery frequently loses its charge or struggles to maintain power, it may be nearing the end of its lifespan. In such cases, it is recommended to consult a marine specialist to assess the condition of your battery and determine if a replacement is necessary.

Dewinterise the boat

Dewinterising your boat is an important process to ensure it is ready for the upcoming boating season. Here is a detailed guide on how to dewinterise your boat:

Remove the Covering

First, take off the tarp or covering from your boat. If you covered your boat properly before storing it for the winter, this will only involve removing the protective sheeting. However, if your boat was not adequately covered, you may have to clean off dust, grime, and even deal with unwanted visitors such as bugs, rodents, or birds that may have made nests.

Check the Engine

After a long period in storage, the engine is the first thing you must inspect. This includes changing the oil and oil filter, adding the correct oil additive to prevent corrosion, and inspecting the outdrive. Ensure you refer to your owner's manual for specific instructions and requirements.

Refill the Cooling System

Before winter storage, you should have drained the cooling system to prevent the coolant line from freezing. Now, it's time to refill the system. Check the cooling system's hoses for any holes and cracks, and don't forget to empty the strainer. Ensure the rubber impeller is not cracked before refilling the system.

Check Water Pumps and Thermostats

The water pump on the impeller should be replaced regularly, approximately every 200 hours of use. The thermostat regulates the water temperature, and if it's not functioning correctly, your engine may overheat or become too cold. Replace the thermostat once it reaches 200 hours of use, along with the water pump.

Inspect Cables and Hoses

Cables and hoses are prone to wear and tear over time, especially if they are made of rubber, which can break down in cold temperatures and sunlight. Check all cables and hoses to ensure they are tight and secure. Pay close attention to the fuel and coolant hoses, as these are important rubber components that need to be in good condition.

Check Your Battery

Perform a battery check, including testing the volts and amps with a battery tester. If the battery is not holding a charge, it may need to be replaced. If it is functioning properly, clean any corrosion from the battery terminals before reconnecting them to the cables. Top off any fluids using distilled water to prevent impurities from entering the battery.

Clean the Distributor

Distributors can corrode during the winter, so it's important to clean them as part of the dewinterising process. Remove the distributor cap and clean it thoroughly. Once cleaned, ensure all connections are securely tightened.

Inspect the Fuel System

Carefully inspect the fuel line for any cracks, as freezing temperatures can cause the rubber fuel lines to crack. If you did not use a fuel stabilizer before winter, you will need to drain the fuel tank and refill it with fresh fuel, as the old fuel may have gone stale. Also, if you did not change the fuel filter before winter, be sure to install a new one now.

Additional Checks and Maintenance

• Exterior Inspection: Check the boat's exterior for any damage, including cracks, missing pieces, or gouges.
• Belts: Check for worn belts by pressing down on them; they should have minimal give. Also, look for soot near the pulleys, which indicates belt wear.
• Bilge Pump: Inspect the bilge pump, automatic switch, and circuit. Ensure the pump activates when water enters the bilge.
• Paint: Paint the bottom of the boat with anti-fouling paint to keep it clean and prevent rot. Prepare the surface by sanding and scraping if needed.
• Trailer: Check the trailer for corrosion or rust and replace it if necessary.
• Safety Gear: Ensure all safety equipment is up to date and functional, including fire extinguishers, lights, signalling equipment, and flotation devices.
• Clean and Test Electronics: Give your boat a final clean, ensuring all electronics are functioning, and your battery is charged. Check navigational lights and perform any other necessary tests before taking your boat out on the water.

Frequently asked questions