Ready, Set, Sail: Get your Marine Gear in Shape before Spring

Sailing is all about freedom, adventure and relaxation, but none of that is possible if your equipment fails when you need it most. Looking after your kit isn’t just about convenience, it’s about safety, performance and protecting your investment. Regular maintenance can prevent unexpected breakdowns, extend the lifespan of your equipment and provide a hassle-free start to the new season. Don’t wait until the first warm day when everyone rushes to get their gear serviced – be proactive and make sure you’re ready ahead of time!

How to Look at Your Outboard

Your engine is the heart of your boat and regular servicing is essential. Not only does it ensure reliability, but it’s usually a requirement to maintain your warranty. A poorly maintained engine can leave you stranded and the last thing you want is to discover an issue just as the season begins. If your engine hasn’t been run for months, check whether it has seized up and arrange for a professional service to make sure it’s in full working order.

Carry out the following checks regularly to keep your engine in peak condition.

1. Check for leaks, cracks or damage in fuel lines. Ensure all connections are tight and the fuel tank is clean and free of condensation. Fuel should be drained at the end of every season.
2. Change oil and filters as per manufacturer’s recommendations to maintain engine efficiency.
3. Replace worn or corroded spark plugs to avoid starting issues.
4. Make sure that the water pump and cooling system are functioning properly, replacing the impeller if necessary.
5. Inspect the propeller for damage and check it’s securely attached and free of debris.
6. Test the battery, then charge or replace as needed and clean terminals.
7. Examine belts and hoses for wear, cracking or looseness and replace if needed.
8. Lubricate moving parts like steering and throttle cables to prevent corrosion.
9. Flush the engine with fresh water after each trip, especially in saltwater, to prevent corrosion.

How Often Should You Check Your Engine?

• Before each use – conduct a basic check of oil levels, fuel lines and battery condition
• Monthly – inspect belts, hoses and filters to catch early signs of wear

How Often Should You Service Your Engine?

A full professional service is recommended once a year – or after 100 hours of use – to maintain optimal performance and keep warranties valid.
 

Did You Pack Everything Away Properly?

Think back to the end of last season – did you store everything correctly? Now’s the time to check. If your boat was left exposed to the elements, damp and salt may have caused damage. Look for signs of corrosion, mould or wear and tear on your sails, ropes and rigging. A little time spent inspecting and cleaning your gear now could prevent costly repairs later.

Storage Tips

• Rinse all equipment with fresh water before storage to remove salt and grime
• Make sure that sails and ropes are completely dry to prevent mould and mildew
• Store electronics and batteries in a dry, cool place to avoid corrosion
• Cover your boat properly to protect it from the elements

Safety First: Check Life Jackets and Equipment
 

Your safety gear is just as important as your boat’s mechanics. Life jackets, flares, fire extinguishers and first aid kits can all deteriorate over time. Failing to check them before you set sail could put lives at risk.

Inspect life jackets for wear and tear – check for perished straps, faulty buckles or inflation issues if they are self-inflating. 1 in 4 life jackets fail when we have them in for servicing, so it’s a real issue that people don’t check them often enough. And make sure they still fit the intended wearers! Flares, fire extinguishers and other emergency equipment should also be checked and replaced if expired or damaged. Don’t leave this to the last minute; it could be the difference between life and death in an emergency. 

How Often Should Safety Equipment Be Checked?

• Life jackets should be inspected before every trip, serviced annually and replaced every 10 years – or sooner if damaged
• Flares have expiry dates and should be replaced as recommended by the manufacturer – when you buy flares from us, we can dispose of your old used or unused ones
• Fire extinguishers should be checked monthly and professionally inspected annually
• First aid kits should be restocked regularly, with all items in date and ready for use

Get Ahead of the Rush

Every year, boatyards and marine service centres (like us!) are flooded with last-minute requests when spring arrives. Booking your service early means you won’t be left waiting while others scramble for appointments. By taking the time now to check your boat, engine and safety equipment, you’ll be ready to enjoy the season without any unexpected hiccups.

Additional Tips for Maintaining Your Kit Year-Round

• Wash down your boat regularly to prevent salt build-up and corrosion
• Lubricate moving parts like winches, hinges and pulleys to keep them in good working order
• Check your bilge pump to avoid unexpected water ingress
• Test all electronics, including GPS, depth sounders and VHF radios
• Clean lights and replace any faulty bulbs
• Check the anchor and docking lines for fraying or weakening
• Inspect the hull for damage, clean and wax it to protect from wear, and check your trailer for rust and tyre pressure
• Keep a maintenance log to track servicing, repairs and replacements

By staying on top of these maintenance tasks, you’ll keep your boat in excellent condition, ready for a smooth start to the new season. Well-maintained kit not only gives you peace of mind but also enhances performance, fuel efficiency and overall enjoyment on the water.

Need help getting your vessel and equipment ship-shape? Buccaneer Marine provides professional servicing and repairs for engines, life jackets and safety equipment. As an authorised service centre and dealer for leading marine brands, we stock top-of-the-range engines, life jackets, flares, electronics, navigation systems and specialist underwater equipment. 

Contact us today to book your service so you can be prepared for the season ahead. If you find that some kit does need replacing, pop into our chandlery at Macduff Harbour and have a browse.