Spring Boat Maintenance Guide

Spring is arriving, and if you own a Lund boat, you surely want it to keep looking and performing like new. In addition to the usual spring commissioning chores like de-winterizing and checking all the mechanical systems, you should also employ some basic spring boat maintenance. Ready to get started?

Wash the boat from stem to stern

A clean boat is a happy boat, and a big component of aluminum boat maintenance is simply keeping everything clean. Surface contaminants, oxidation and “lake stain” can cause an aluminum boat to lose its luster. The longer the boat goes between cleanings, the worse it will get. After cleaning, glossy painted areas should be protected with a coat of wax.

Change the outboard engine fluids

Whether you do the task yourself or take your boat to the dealer, be sure to start the season with fresh oil in the powerhead and lower unit of your outboard. Note that part of the job includes swapping out that old powerhead oil filter for a fresh one.

Remove gear from stowage compartments

Every spring you should offload items like life jackets, fishing tackle boxes, and any other gear from the boat’s integrated stowage compartments. Then, you can see what needs to be cleaned or replaced before loading the boat back up.

Treat soft goods and plastics

Soft goods like vinyl seat cushions and bimini top canvas will deteriorate if they aren’t cleaned and safeguarded with a protectant. If you fail to do so, UV damage, mold or mildew may set in. Similarly, plastics need protecting because time and UV exposure will cause most to leech out their plasticizers. This leads to them becoming dull and brittle, and in many cases, eventually breaking.

Grease and lube

Naturally you’ll want to add some grease to Zerk fittings on the systems that have them, but other parts of the boat may benefit from lubrication as well. Things like hatch hinges, swing-open windshields and mounts with ball joints should be lubricated regularly. As you do your spring maintenance, manipulate every moving part on your boat and listen for squeaking.

Remember, a good maintenance regime is the best way to keep your boat looking and functioning like new. This spring, take the time to start off right, and you should be in for a great season of boating.