Pre- Lift in Advice 2012
16 January
With the days already beginning to get longer it can only mean one thing... sailing season will soon be upon us. With the imminent sailing season of course first comes the list of spring work jobs to be completed in time for Lift-In which is scheduled for the 31st March.
Whilst this winter was milder than most, it was still cold and the cold can can cause havoc in sailboats and associated systems and if not checked can result in damage that may only become apparent upon launching. For this reason it is important to give your boat extra care now and not wait until Lift-In.
A few moments for checks now might well save unnecessary damage upon launching.
The main areas to check for damage are the engine, the water system, the head, the galley and the interior.
The Engine
Many of the tasks required to prepare your engine for use are routine and are easily accomplished.
If you do not have the time or would prefer a professional to carry out the necessary work we have a list of approved professional contractors that will be delighted to do the required maintenance.
Some suggestions:
1. It is good practice to change the engine oil and filters every year.
2. Check the gearbox fluid level.
3. Your boat should be equipped with a good water separating filter that can reduce fuel problems. Replace the filter element in your water separating fuel filter (and secondary one if there one) and be sure to drain any water present in the settling bowl.
4. Inspect flexible fuel lines for chaffing and wear.
Most marine engines have zinc anodes that are threaded into the engine block, on the shaft or even behind the propeller. It is good practice to learn these locations and change them every spring.
1. Check the tension of drive belts and consider proactively replacing them. Carry spares for the belts and filters used by your engine.
2. Ensure the bilge blower functions correctly and check the condition of the flexible hoses attached to it.
3. Check the raw water strainer on engines that are cooled in this manner. If water froze in this over the winter the bolts may have sheared off and will need to be replaced.
4. Failed exhaust tubing gaskets can cause unwanted flooding with some engines. Check the condition of the exhaust tubing and its gaskets.
The Water System
Flush the fresh water system by turning on the water pump and draining the entire contents of the storage tank. Refill the tank with fresh water and run water through every hot and cold water tap on the vessel. You want to flush out any traces of the non-toxic antifreeze you used to winterize the boat. Double check the deck filler caps for the water system to ensure they are in place and well sealed to keep out contaminants. Check the operation of the hot water heater on all sources of power.
The Marine Head
Fill the head with water and check for leaks. Check that the holding tank has been pumped out. Restock chemicals required for onboard treatment systems, holding tank deodorant and toilet paper that is compatible with marine heads. Exercise the Y-valve, ensuring its positions are clearly labelled and the handle is cleared in the proper position while in port.
The Galley
Fill propane tanks on vessels that use it for cooking or heating fuel. Check the operation of manual and electric gas valves. Inspect fuel supply lines for leaks and ensure that tank locker vents are clear. Propane is heavier than air and leaking propane can settle into the lower parts of your hull, creating an explosion hazard. Clean the stove and check the performance of the burners. Clean the fridge/ Ice Box, then operate it on both shore and ships power.
The Vessels' Interior
Inspect the condition of all thru-hull fittings, work attached seacocks; check the flexible hoses and clamps. Consider proactive replacement of clamps and hoses. A failed thru-hull fitting can cause a major emergency. Look for oil in the bilges. If oil is present, identify its source, take prompt action and fix the leak. Clean the bilges and stock oil adsorbent pads and pillows for use in the engine spaces. Check operation of bilge pumps and switches. Lubricate stuffing boxes, shaft and rudder logs
If you have any questions or require any advice please feel free to contact the Sailing Manager on 01 280 1811 or email sailingmanager@rsgyc.ie.
