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Things To Remember For Your Boating Pre-Launch
While spring-like weather has already arrived in certain parts of the country, others are anxiously awaiting. Regardless of the weather, it is essential to ensure you are fully prepared to launch your boat and enjoy the waters as soon as you can. In order to do so, here are some things to check when performing your spring pre-launch inspection: Check the oil levels and its condition before starting the engine. If an oil change is necessary, it is important to do so before turning the engine on. It is a good idea to keep an extra filter and fresh oil onboard, just in case. Check the fuel filter. If it appears worn or is clogged, this will need to be replaced. Flush the engine and cooling ducts. This process can be done by using a hose to flush fresh water through the suction pipe. During this process, be sure to have plenty of fresh water available, as well as allow the engine to run after the flushing to rid of any sludge. Replace your impellers if it appears worn, or if it has been two years since they were replaced last, or whichever comes first. Check cooling system, as well as the cooling and exhaust hoses to ensure they are all in good condition. Ensure the engine belts have ample tension, or replace them if necessary. Warm up the engine and check for leaks in the fuel system. If you do find any, ensure the engine is turned off and not run again until this has been fixed. Check transmission fluid levels. Check spark plugs and ensure you have extras onboard for any future emergencies. Ensure all your safety equipment is in good repair and is fully functional. Replace any necessary items, as needed, especially before taking your boat out for the first time. It is imperative that this pre-launch check is thoroughly performed in order to provide you and your passengers with the best boating experience possible! For more resources on how to care for your inboard boat, or to view our wide selection of inboard specific accessories, visit Only Inboards today.
Learn moreKeeping Your Boat Looking Like New
Like with anything that you wish to keep looking new for a long time, proper maintenance and care is critical. When it comes to your inboard boat, consistent wear and tear on those long summer days can take a toll on your boat. Here are some maintenance tips to help keep your boating looking like new: Keep your boat clean. Just like your car, it is important to keep your boat clean. It is also a good idea to apply a coat of wax to your boat twice a year in order to protect your boat’s gel coat and keep it looking glossy. In order to prevent the wood from drying out and cracking, it is important to protect the swim platform with linseed oil, applying it twice a year as well. When it comes to your paint, it is a good idea to consider having a light sanding done, as well as a re-application of acrylic paint if your boat’s color is looking a little washed out. Protect your interior. In addition to keeping the outside of your boat clean, it is as equally important to keep the inside clean as well, especially when it comes to your seats. By applying a vinyl conditioner monthly to your boat’s seats, you can prevent any damage or drying from the hot summer sun. Use proper maintenance. Not only should you ensure the proper engine maintenance, as well ensuring that you are performing recurring oil changes, fuel filter changes, and spark plug replacements, but you should also remember to keep your fuel system clean. In order to keep your cylinders functioning properly, it is imperative that you apply a fuel injector cleaner every other time you fill up. By utilizing a proper maintenance schedule, you can ensure that you will keep your inboard boat looking like new for a very long time. If you are in the market for a used inboard or ski boat, or are looking to enhance your boating experience, visit OnlyInboards. We are the Internet’s largest inboard specific resource.
Learn moreIt's Time To Winterize Your Boat
With winter rapidly approaching, it’s sadly time to start winterizing your boat’s drive system. By following these few steps, you will be sure to have your boat running in no time…or as soon as spring arrives! Drain the engine. Since there is no doubt that you spent all summer running your boat, it is essential that you rid the system of any water, acids, or any other byproducts. When water is left in the cooling chambers, the water may freeze causing possible cracks in the engine block and manifolds. Change your oil. Just like with any vehicle, by not changing the oil and filter, you can cause damage to the engine, experience a loss of power, or even have poor fuel economy. It is important to eliminate any moisture in order to prevent corrosion. There are some mechanics who suggest doing this after the summer, however, instead of when you winterize. This reason is due to the idea that moisture that will build up during the winter months as well. Always remember to change the oil filter as well. Add antifreeze. It is imperative that you add antifreeze to inboard cooling systems in order to prevent damage from freezing. It is best to use a marine grade engine antifreeze, either being rated -60 degrees or -100 degrees. Treat your fuel with a stabilizer. By stabilizing your fuel, you are ensuring the carburetors and fuel systems won’t be clogged or varnished. According to Randy Vance of Boating Magazine, the ideal stabilizers to use are Pennzoil Fuel stabilizer. PRI-G, and Stabil. Fog the cylinders. By fogging your engine, you are protecting the moving parts inside of the engine which can corrode during the harsh winter months. Since not all boats and engines are the same, always be sure to consult with your engine’s manual, your mechanic, or the manufacturer to ensure you are using the preferred products and performing these important tasks in the most appropriate manner for your boat. OnlyInBoards is the largest inboard specific resource website. Whether you are interested in buying, selling, or accessorizing your inboard boat, we are here to help with all of your needs. Visit our website for more great information on inboard specific boats of all types.
Learn moreImportant Tips to Consider When Buying a Boat
When you make the decision to invest your time and money into buying a boat, it is important to ask yourself a few key questions before taking that big step: What are my boating needs and how many people do I need to accommodate? By considering things like the size of the boat you need, how many seats there are, and what special features you wish to have, can help to ensure you are purchasing a boat with your specific needs in mind. It is imperative to make sure your storage space can accommodate your boat, that you have enough room for your passengers or for your recreational use, and it includes the features that are required for your specific boating needs. Have you shopped around? Especially when buying a used boat, it is important to review your options and know your facts. Always take plenty of time into making a decision and keep a sharp eye on what’s out there…you never know what kind of deal you may find! Did you do your research? When you do narrow down your choices, it is important to ask the dealer or current owner about the details of the boat. Questions such as how the boat handles the water, what type of water the boat was used in, what types of recreational water sports did they use it for, and if the boat had been previously owned are essential in determining if the boat performs well and is right for you and your needs. Always make the boat’s history a top priority when buying used. The last thing you want to do is buy a stolen or damaged boat. Are you buying from someone you can trust? When purchasing online, it is important to only purchase from a reputable site. Ideally, community sites are the best because you not only can become a member, but you have the ability to find exactly what you’re looking for. OnlyInboards is the Internet’s largest inboard specific boating community. We can help you make the right decision when it comes to buying the boat of your dreams.
Learn moreDo You Need A Wakeboard Tower?
In the past, wakeboard towers were not a common sight. As times have changed, are now dominating the wakeboard scene. Even though most new wakeboard boats come with towers, many boaters are finding themselves purchasing aftermarket towers for their used boats. Whether you are looking to purchase a boat with a tower, or wanting to add a wakeboard tower to your current boat, here are some things to consider to help you decide if you do need a wakeboard tower: The Benefits Of A Wakeboard Tower Wakeboard towers have many benefits to them: Wakeboard towers raises the tie off point of the rope, which allows for a rider to not be pulled down by low tie off points, which allows for more hang-time. Wakeboard towers free up more space inside of the boat, unlike an extended pylon, which is typically situated in the middle of the boat. Wakeboard towers provide ample space to place things such as speakers, wakeboard racks, and lights. Wakeboard towers provide additional support for riders when moving around the boat, as well as for getting in and out of the boat. Wakeboard towers enhance your boat, providing character to your boat. Where To Buy Wakeboard Towers Wakeboard towers are easy to find these days. Before making a purchase, however, it is necessary to consider who the manufacturer is of your boat and what kind of wakeboard tower will work for your specific boat. There are two kinds of wakeboard towers you can invest in. Custom wakeboard towers are built with your boat’s make and model in mind, while adjustable wakeboard towers are available for boat owners to install themselves. Although many times boat owners will go directly to wakeboard tower manufactures when deciding to purchase wakeboard towers, an excellent alternative and less expensive resource is OnlyInboards. OnlyInboards has the largest selection of wakeboard towers on the Internet. We specialize in providing top of the line accessories in order to enhance your wakeboarding experience. Visit us to see how we can enhance your boating experience today.
Learn moreGreen Boating Tips
In observation of Earth Day this week, here are some tips on how you can help the environment by going “green” during your boating activities: Prevent oil and fuel leaks. By keeping your engine well tuned and in good condition, you can ensure that you are preventing any current or potential oil or fuel leaks from occurring. One good practice is to place an oil absorbent pad under your engine in case of drips. Be sure to check these frequently, disposing of them as hazardous waste. Prevent oil spills. When changing your boat’s oil, it is always best to use an oil pump to transfer your oil. Be sure to use a spill-proof container for the oil you are transferring, as well as wrap a plastic bag around the oil filter. This will prevent any oil from spilling into the bilge. Prevent fuel spills. By slowly, as well as avoiding doing any topping off of your gas tank while refueling, you can eliminate any chances of potential fuel spills. Never use soap for cleanups. When cleaning an oil or fuel spill, using soap is not only harmful to the environment, but it is also against the law. Save your maintenance projects for the boatyard. By performing boat maintenance projects and repairs in the water, you are increasing the risk of potential waste being deposited into the water. Using things like tarps and vacuum sanders will help to contain the waste, and will allow for proper disposal. Properly dispose of your waste. It is highly imperative that things such as batteries, oil and oil filters, antifreeze, and cleaning products be disposed of in a proper manner, and at a hazardous waste facility. By ensuring that we are doing our part for the environment, we can prevent the deterioration and allow for the conservation of recreational lakes and waterways, allowing for the continued enjoyment that boating bring us. OnlyInboards is a proud supporter of the boating world, and recreational watersports. Visit us to view the Internet’s largest inboard specific marketplace, or to check out our boating accessories.
Learn moreThe Essential Boating Safety Tips
No matter how much experience a boater may have, it is always a good idea to ensure you are well prepared and review the essential boating safety tips before each trip on the water. Here is an idea of what to look for to ensure you are fully prepared: Plan accordingly for the weather. It is critical to be weather wise and know what the weather will be like before your departure, as well as during your time on the water. In the event that you are on the water and notice things such as dark clouds or lightning, it is important to get off the water as soon as possible. Use a checklist before departing. In order to ensure that you not only have the appropriate materials for your boating adventure, but also ensure that you are aware of the safety rules and regulations that you should follow. Designate an Assistant Skipper. It is critical to ensure that there is another person on board that is familiar with general boating safety, as well as know how to handle and drive your boat in case of emergencies. Use the appropriate safety equipment. Life jackets are a must, especially for any children or boaters who cannot swim. Take a boating course. By completing a boating safety course, you can ensure that you are familiar with the boating safety rules of operation before hitting the open water. Use your common sense. It is imperative to use your common sense in combination with your knowledge to ensure the best boating experience possible. Avoid doing things such as using unsafe speeds, distracted operating, and being respectful of other boaters and buoys. These safety tips are to be used as a guideline, and in addition to other beneficial safety preparedness plans that you may already have in place. Always remember to let family or friends know what your float plan is, including when, where, and who is all on board. OnlyInboards is the Internet’s largest inboard specific resource and marketplace. Whether you are in the market for a used wakeboard, ski, or inboard boat, or are simply looking to enhance your current one with our large selection of accessories, visit us today.
Learn moreThe Must Have Wakeboard Tower Accessories
You just bought the boat of your dreams, now what? In order to enjoy the full benefits of your boating experience, there are several accessories every wakeboard boat owner should invest in. Bimini Top- If your boat did not already come with one, it is important to invest in one of these. Not only do Bimini tops provide shade from the sun for all the passengers on board, but it also protects everything in your boat, such as the seats and equipment from sun damage. It is necessary to ensure you are purchasing a Bimini top that fits your wakeboard tower. Refer to your tower’s manufacturer to decide on what Bimini top will work best for your particular model. Gear Racks- Gear racks are space savers and free up additional space that can be used for other necessary items such as ballast bags, life jackets, ropes, etc. Gear racks can be purchased for anything from wakeboards to water-skis, depending on the type of equipment you need to store. Speakers- Although not everyone needs the ultimate sound system on their boat, I think most would agree that music is a huge motivator for an awesome ride and provides the ultimate backdrop for a fun day on the water. There are many speakers to choose from ranging in various sizes and shapes. Speakers are a sure way to increase the fun and value of your boat! Tower Lights- If nighttime boating is your thing, then tower lights are a must. Lighting is of utmost importance not only for the safety of yourself and your passengers, but also for other boaters on the water as well. Most often, wakeboard tower speakers will have lights on them as well. Tower Mirrors- Like the mirrors on car, tower mirrors allow for the driver of the boat to see the wakeboards they are towing behind them and the surrounding waters. These are a matter of convenience and will prevent the driver from constantly turning around checking on the wakeboarder behind them. Ultimately, wakeboard towers are just the frame-work for your accessories. With these essential additions, you can ensure your boating experience will not only enjoyable, but unforgettable. For any questions or to browse our huge selection of wakeboard tower accessories, visit OnlyInboards, the largest inboard specific resource website.
Learn moreTips For Performing Mid-Winter Boat Checks
This winter Mother Nature has had a funny way of working. With temperature fluctuating from below zero one day, to 40 degrees the next, it is important to remember to perform thorough mid-winter checks on your boat to ensure there is no damage and to further prepare your boat for future extreme temperature changes. Here are some guidelines that the Boat Owners Association of the United States suggests you should follow: 1. Is your boat above the waterline? If you store your boat in the water during the long winter months, it is essential to check to see if all of the above-water thru-hulls are properly situated above the waterline. Not only does the weight of snow and ice have the ability to submerge these thru-hulls, but the exhaust on inboard boats as well. BoatUS suggests using plastic shovels and brooms to clear away the snow and ice in order to prevent damage to your boat. 2. Has your boat shifted? If you store your boat on a trailer, jack stand, or cradle, it is imperative to check to make sure your boat has not shifted and is still sitting level. If it has, be sure to check for hull deformation. If using a jack stand, it is important that you do not try to adjust the jack stand yourself, but contact the marina staff for help. 3. Is you boat cover still on? A sturdy, tight-fitting boat cover is essential during the winter months in protecting your boat. Poorly fitted covers can sag and can lead to a build up of water, which will most likely freeze and will create a substantial amount of weight and pressure on your boat. 4. Is there water in the bilge? If you say yes, that is not a good sign. This, unfortunately, means that you have a leak. It is imperative that you look for water, locate the leak, and create a temporary plug until this issue can be fixed when the spring comes. BoatUS suggests using things like antifreeze and rock salt to break up and remove any ice in the bilge. 5. Is your boat stored inside? If you pay to keep your boat safely stored inside a storage unit, you are not always in the clear. Check frequently on your boat and with the facility to ensure that temperatures in the facility have been maintained or if there have been any power outages that could have affected your boat. OnlyInboards is a proud supporter of the boating world and is the Internet’s leader in inboard specific boats and accessories. Visit us today to see what other resources we can offer you in order to ensure your ultimate boating experience.
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