Boat dealers in the business of selling or renting yachts and other watercraft to individuals seeking some fun and sun on the waterways need to ensure that these vessels have been well serviced and are ready to use. The following is a checklist of many areas that may require regular check-ups and maintenance.

ENGINE

The vessels engine is the single most important part of any sea craft. The following parts and fluids should be examined and replaced or repaired:

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  Change primary oil & oil filter(s)
  

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  Change primary and/or secondary fuel filters(s)
  

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  Change transmission oil & filter(s)
  

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  Check belts & hoses; replace if worn
  

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  Check coolant levels
  

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  Check engine zincs, motor mounts
  

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  Check exhaust system for leaks
  

GENERATOR

Replace primary oil & oil filter(s). The generator is also a very vital part of the ship's primary function. As with the engine, regular maintenance is crucial to the vessels operation:

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  Replace primary and/or secondary fuel filter(s)
  

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  Check belts & hoses; replace if worn
  

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  Check connections to batteries & main distribution panel
  

ELECTRICAL

Faulty electrical systems could result in the vessel becoming unable to run. An inspection of the following should be done to avoid any problems or issues:

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  Check all wiring & connections; look for worn, pinched or frayed wiring & replace
  

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  Check batteries' condition & connections
  

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  Distribution panel should be opened, connections inspected & cleaned
  

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  Inspect shore electric cable for evidence of resistance or corrosion
  

In addition, the following equipment should be inspected as well:

ELECTRONICS

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  Check compass & Swing if needed
  

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  Test radios & other equipment (radar, plotters etc)
  

HULL

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  Inspect all thru-hull hoses for dry rot & leaks
  

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  Inspect bonding systems for corrosion
  

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  Examine or replace all zinc on hull, shaft etc.
  

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  Clean and/or paint bottom
  

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  Inspect deck fittings, hardware, lights, doors, windows, cleats, handrails, etc; reseal, re-bed or refasten if loose or leaking
  

STEERING GEAR

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  Inspect hydraulic lines; top off if needed
  

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  Check rudder posts & mechanical elements for corrosion or wear
  

RUNNING GEAR

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  Inspect stuffing boxes, repack if needed
  

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  Inspect cutless bearing on shaft & rudder bearing for wear; replace if needed
  

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  Check props, shafts, trim taps, stabilizers for damage or wear; repair or replace
  

FUEL SYSTEM

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  Check for leaks
  

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  Check for moisture or sediment
  

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  Check tanks, hoses, fittings for corrosion
  

SAFETY

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  Check fire extinguishers & recharge if needed
  

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  Halon systems should be certified annually
  

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  Check all bilge pumps
  

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  Inspect life raft & verify certification with a qualified inspection station
  

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  Review flare kit expiration dates
  

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  Check number, size and condition of life preservers
  

LINES & RIGGING

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  Inspect all lines for frayed or worn areas
  

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  Check tension and connections of rigging and lifelines
  

COMFORT

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  Inspect air conditioner(s) recharge if needed
  

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  Inspect canvas, biminis, etc. for frayed or worn areas or missing or damaged fasteners; replace or repair
  

SAILS

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  Inspect for worn or frayed areas; repair or patch as required
  

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  Wash sails to remove salt and other material
  

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  Check condition or tension controls
  

Regular maintenance is an important aspect of running a successful boat dealership. Having suitable boat dealer insurance is another way to protect these beautiful, luxurious water vessels. Make sure insurance is updated annually, and that the coverage is adequate.