Summer is almost here, which means it’s already hot outside, and the waters are beginning to really heat up. For boat owners, this is one of the best times of the year to get out on the water to relax and rejuvenate after a long week at work. But ask yourself these questions: Is your yacht ready for summer? Have you refreshed your memory on the importance of proper propeller maintenance?
To avoid costly replacement boat parts in Fort Lauderdale, consider the following propeller maintenance tips:
- Inspect it before trips: Before sailing off into the sunset, you must inspect your yacht’s propeller. Look for dents, dings and other visible damage. Do this every time to better ensure the prop is in good working order for a safe and enjoyable trip.
- Rinse it after every trip: Although clean freshwater is safe on boat propellers, low quality freshwater and saltwater can do a number on the prop’s integrity. You’ll avoid rust and corrosion when you rinse it off after every use.
- Check for things tangled in it: From discarded fishing line to thick aquatic vegetation, there are things you should check for that are common culprits of damaged propellers. Check for entangled things often to prevent wear to boat components around the propeller.
You’ll also want to do anything in your power to prevent damage to your boat’s propeller. Here are three useful tips to keep in mind:
- Keep an eye out for shallow water: You must always be watching for shallow water to avoid damage to your boat. When near land, keep an open eye on the water ahead of you and go slow. Low water levels can spell disaster for propellers; no boat propeller is 100 percent safe. In fact, even the most seasoned boater can run ashore or hit submerged objects.
- Watch out for water weeds and invasive plants: Aquatic plants are a part of the oceans and lakes, but as the weather heats up, water vegetation growth often times explodes. Since this is the case, be aware of invasive plants in your area. They are difficult to see in murky waters and can get tangled and snagged in props, causing a lot of damage. If you do coast into a vegetation-heavy area, lift the prop to keep weeds from becoming tangled around the blades.
- Pay attention to ropes and chains: When docking or undocking, be wary of the ropes and chains used to secure the yacht. Left dangling over the side into the water, a rope or chain can end up tangled in the propeller. They are not easy to untangle, and can even cause unfixable damage to the prop or other parts of the boat.
At Starboard Yacht Group LLC, we are more than a yacht maintenance and service company. Our other specialties include exceptional yacht management and fitting your vessel with new parts. And don’t worry if the boat parts in Fort Lauderdale that you’re looking for seem hard to find—we will help you locate the exact part you need to get your boat back on the water again. Contact us today!