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Boat Servicing & Maintenance Checklist

Nov. 6 2022 Miscellaneous By Riva Motorsports Miami team

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In most cases, a problem with your boat is the only element that can ruin a day on the water. Being stuck on a broken boat in the middle of the sea may be inconvenient at best and potentially deadly at worst. As a result, regular boat maintenance is crucial, particularly in the summer when you'll be using your boat often.


Regularly maintaining your boat can improve its performance and save you money in the long run. Riva Motorsports Miami offers comprehensive service for all makes and models.

Marine Engine Maintenance

Don't give up on your sailing plans because of engine trouble. Most marine engine problems are preventable with regular maintenance. You can do several types of maintenance on your own to keep the engine in your boat in good working order.


  • Read the Handbook: Educate yourself with your boat's handbook. This owner's guide typically has a basic maintenance process breakdown and a suggested plan for routine checks.

  • Keep the gas tank full: Be sure to use a good diesel additive and keep the tank at a healthy level to avoid the formation of harmful bacteria. Every time you go out, you should check the water level in the inspection bowl of your gasoline filter.

  • Prepare your engine for the winter: An inboard or sterndrive engine's cooling system has to be cleansed with antifreeze before being stored for an extended period in subfreezing weather. When you do this, the fresh water in the engine's cooling system is released, preventing it from freezing and causing damage.

  • Prevent battery failure at all costs: Marine batteries are designed to resist the vibration and hammering they take aboard boats. They should be used whenever the engine cranking battery has to be replaced.

  • Inspect the prop shaft: Propellers should be taken off of outboards and sterndrives many times a year so that you can inspect the prop shaft for fishing line or other debris.


Finally, performing routine maintenance once a year is always a good idea, whether you do it yourself or hire a professional.



Outboard Engine Care

You don't need to be a mechanic to maintain your outboard in excellent condition. Regular preventative maintenance on your boat's engine makes safe boating easier. After a trip, here is a list of things you should do to keep maintenance costs low.

  • Put the water pump to work while you crank the engine.

  • Be sure the water pump is working properly before you start cleansing the motor.

  • Clean the engine thoroughly.

  • If you've just finished cleansing your engine, you should let it run until all the gasoline in the carburetor is burnt.

  • Remove the engine cover to look for water or gasoline seepage.

  • Spray anti-corrosion products on the surfaces, such as WD 40 or Quick-lube, then wipe them clean.

  • Never reuse old gasoline.

  • Put the cover back on and give it a good cleaning. When not in use, shield the motor with a plastic or canvas cover.

Winterizing Your Boat

Choosing a boat storage location is the beginning of getting your prized possession ready for the long winter ahead. Winterizing a boat is necessary before the first hard freeze in many parts of the nation. We've compiled a list of steps you can take to winterize your boat:

  • Drain the engine and dry it well.

  • If fogging is required, follow the directions in your owner's handbook.

  • Put a gasoline stabilizer into the tank and start the engine.

  • Take out the plugs, if there are any.

  • Cover your boat to protect it from the elements before putting it away for the winter.

  • Protect your engine from corrosion.

  • Fuel filters and water separators should be replaced as part of this maintenance.

  • Get rid of the freshwater in your boat's pipes.

  • Drain water from any extra systems. Double check.

  • Add antifreeze to prevent the pipes from freezing.

Semi-Annual Checklist

A semi-annual checklist involves ensuring the following are in good condition:

  • Safety equipment: Ensure your safety equipment is in proper working condition.

  • Fire extinguishers: Make sure your extinguishers are not expired.

  • Ground tackle: Check the rode, anchor, and any shackles to connect these parts to the boat for damage.

  • Electrical System

  • Stoves

  • Fuel system

  • Personal floatation devices: Check the floatation devices for damage or holes and ensure that all straps are in good shape.

  • Through hulls

  • Batteries: Check the batteries for corrosion, and ensure they are stored properly.

  • Preventing corrosion

The Best Professional Boat Maintenance & Service in Miami

Our devoted service staff at Riva Motorsports will attend to your requirements with a degree of competence. We can do both minor and major repairs, as well as regular maintenance. Plus, we have the best safety record in the industry.


Our Service Department's honesty and reliability are unmatched. We are in support of all recalls and warranty repairs. Any issues you may have with your Suzuki, Yamaha, Can-Am, Sea-Doo, Continental, and more will be dealt with quickly, accurately, and professionally. 


If you would like to make an appointment for servicing, please call (305) 239-8485 to reach our Service Department.