Chapter 4: Preparing for your Trip Hull & Equipment Checklist

OUTSIDE:

Check bottom for damage.
Check hull for needed repair, paint and / or wax.
Check shafts and props or outdrives and props; nuts and pins.
Check rudder.
Check cutlass bearings.
Check the outdrive boot for wear, check cables for wear and check cable ends for lubrication.
Check zincs, replace as necessary.
Check deck fittings for integrity … rails, cleats, handholds, ladders, lifelines. Clean, polish and replace as needed.
Check standing and running rigging. Reverse as needed. Inspect / replace turnbuckles.
Check hatches, ports and port lights for leaks and integrity.
Check all lines and fenders. Reverse anchor rode yearly.
Check and service anchor windlass.
Check all blocks on a sailboat.
Check and clean mast, fittings and equipment.
Check windshield wipers.
Clear cockpit drains.
Check dinghy / life raft.

INSIDE:

Check hoses to through-hull fittings.
Check all sea-cocks and gate-valves. Consider replacing gate-valves with seacocks.
Inspect hose clamps. Hoses below the waterline should be double-clamped.
Inspect packing in stuffing boxes. Replace if necessary.
Check tanks for leaks and check tank fittings.
Check bilge for unusual stains or fluids. Find source and repair.
On a sailboat, inspect keel bolts for tightness and attachment area for separation.
Ensure hull drain plugs are installed.
Check and charge batteries.
Install and check all electronics.
Check and adjust compass.
Inspect radar reflector.
Inspect exposed wiring for wear.
Inspect and / or test breakers and fuses.
Rinse water tank.
Check manual and pressure pumps.
Check all mandatory safety equipment.
Check bilge pump, strainers and switches.
Check and update spare parts.
Check and update charts and publications.
Check emergency kit.
Check distress signalling devices for date and compliance.

ENGINE:

Replace ignition parts. Follow manufacturers recommendations.
Clean engine surface and touch up as needed.
Check engine oil and change oil and filter if not done in the fall. (This should be done at lay up)
Check transmission lubricant or outdrive lubricant.
Clean and replace air and fuel filters.
Inspect all electrical connections for corrosion.
Re-tension belts.
Check cooling water intake and impellers.
Check thermostat for clean flow and operation.
Reconnect all hoses and / or check clamps.
Check engine zincs.
Check and re-connect all fuel lines and fittings for cracks and leaks.
Fill fuel tank if not done in the fall.
Once running, check operation of all gauges.
Check alternator for charging capacity.

TRAILER:

OTHER EQUIPMENT:

Check optional equipment such as fridges, air conditioning units, stoves and water heaters according to manufacturers' recommendations.