Pontoon Maintenance Guide

Owning a pontoon boat can add a lot of value to your life. You can spend time with your family and go fishing. However, owning a pontoon boat comes with a lot of responsibility. One of those responsibilities is maintaining your boat. At L&M Marine LLC in Stapleton, Alabama, we have a nice selection of pontoon boats, and we serve Mobile, Alabama and Pensacola, Florida.

Check the Engine

Your engine is one of the most important parts of your boat because it allows you to move through the water. Therefore, you want to make sure you are continuing to maintain it. When you are finished using your boat, fill the fuel tank. Flush the engine. 

Inspect the cowling, and replace it when necessary. When doing your maintenance check, see if there is water in the fuel tank. If there is, drain the tank. Check to see if the aspirator vent works. You also want to check the health of your boat's battery. You can purchase a battery meter for this.

Look at the Fluid Levels

Top off the fluid levels in your boat. If you notice the oil in your tank is no longer liquid due to not using the boat, you will have to empty the tank and refill it. It is also important to replace old fuel filters with new ones. Check your fuel line for cracks.

Look at Belts

When doing your inspection, check the belts on the boat, like the alternator belts, to make sure they haven't loosened. You will know you have to tighten them if the belts are not lying against the pulley grooves. After a few years, you will have to replace them.

Inspect the Spark Plugs

It is important to check your spark plugs. They do not last long, but you can replace them pretty easily. You also do not need a lot of money to replace them. To know when they should be replaced, check for any rust or corrosion. Get a socket wrench and spark plug socket to remove the old spark plugs.

Clean Your Boat Weekly

Make sure you clean your pontoon boat weekly. You really should clean the boat every time you take it out. However, if it is not possible to do so, once a week should be sufficient. You can allow freshwater to dry on the boat. The same is not true for saltwater as saltwater can corrode metal surfaces. So, rinse the saltwater off as soon as you get out of the water.

Lubricate Moving Parts

Moving parts on your boat need to be lubricated when necessary. You may have to do this once every one or two months. If you do not do so, it can lead to mechanical failure which is something you do not want.

When maintaining your pontoon boat, there are some things you need to do. You need to make sure your engine is functioning well. Check the fluids on your boat. Make sure the belts are tight. Have a look at the spark plugs. Clean your boat regularly. Keep the moving parts on your boat regularly. If you are looking for a pontoon boat, visit us at L&M Marine LLC in Stapleton, Alabama as we serve Mobile, Alabama and Pensacola, Florida.