Take the stress out of the big day with practical tips from Ali Wood
Spring is just around the corner and you’re probably starting to think about your boat’s launch date; which last jobs need doing and when.
The RNLI’s top call-out at this time of the year is due to machinery and equipment failure.
“We would encourage boat owners to be prepared by making sure you have your engine and equipment serviced regularly,” advises the RNLI’s water safety manager, Sam Hughes.
“Before heading out, check your belts, oil, filters, bilges, coolant, strainers, air filters and seacocks. It’s important to make sure you check your fuel too–often we see people who have run out of fuel or have contaminated fuel. Ideally, carry spares and tools for small repairs you can carry out yourself.”
Hopefully, by now, you’ve done the big jobs–things such as antifouling and engine service, replacing anodes and skin fittings, cleaning the water tanks and checking for wear and tear. If not, take a look at www.pbo.co.uk/winterDIY. The following are some more pointers to ensure a safe and fun launch day.
BEFORE LAUNCH
Mechanical failure is the single biggest cause of RNLI call-outs to yachts and motorboats, accounting for nearly 40% of all lifeboat launches.
Hopefully, your engine has been serviced over the winter. Replace the raw water pump impeller if you’ve not already done so and replace or reinstall any engine belts you may have removed.
Check for signs of leaks and inspect hoses and belts for damage. Are the oil and coolant levels topped up? Check stern glands for leaks and grease where necessary. Examine filters, strainers and particularly water separators in fuel lines.
Always keep a copy of your engine’s user guide on board (if you’ve lost it you can probably download one online). If you feel you need more training on engine servicing, why not enrol on the RYA’s diesel engine maintenance course? The RYA Diesel Engine Handbook is also a great resource. And don’t forget PBO’s own series of videos with our engine expert Stu Davies and his wife Laura on the Project Boat’s Volvo MD2020 engine. See pbo.co.uk/engineservice
Fuel tank check
Check the fuel tank for condensation. If you have adrain plug on the tank, open it at least once a week to check for water. You might also consider fitting a Diesel Dipper or fuel polishing system which removes sludge and water. If you see any evidence of diesel bug, you should treat it and remove the water and organic matter before you start your engine. Alternatively, empty and steam-clean the tank.
If your fuel filler cap is leaky, replace it as this is acommon way for water to enter the fuel. PBO’s marine surveyor Ben Sutcliffe-Davies experienced this problem on his
