Section 8 • Required Inspection, Service, &
Maintenance
3.Inspection, Service and Maintenance Protocol
A.Bilge Area
Many of your boat’s systems have critical features located in the bilge area. A thorough and organized inspection of the bilge area will address many of these critical features. For example, engine oil leaks and fuel system leaks will show themselves as contamination on the surface of the liquid that remains in the bilge. When you see such contamination, you should look for its source.
Once or twice a year, pump the bilge areas dry and remove all loose dirt. Be sure that all the limber holes are open. Limber holes are the openings in the stringers that allow water to flow from the outboard areas of the bilge to the bilge sump.
Check the bilge pump float switch by moving it manually. (Figure 4.1.2) The bilge pump should start when the float switch is raised and should stop when lowered. If it does not, have it replaced before using your boat. The float switch should also move freely without sticking, if it does not, have it serviced or replaced before boating.
!WARNING
DO NOT USE FLAMMABLE SOLVENTS to clean any part of the bilge.
Fumes can accumulate and can be the source of an explosion.
2.Engine
Engine failure or malfunction, when away from shore, can be dangerous. Make certain you do the following each time you use the boat:
•Wipe off the engine to remove accumulated dust, grease and oil.
•Check all exposed nuts, bolts and screws for tightness.
•Inspect the belts for wear. If they do not require replacement, check and adjust the belt tension according to the engine manufacturer’s recommendation.
•Inspect engine wiring, and clean and tighten the terminals on the engine electrical system.
•Clean and lubricate the battery cables.
•Add distilled water to the battery cells as needed.
•Refer to your Engine Operator’s Manual for additional engine maintenance requirements.
3.Fuel System
•Inspect the entire fuel system for evidence of leakage, including the fuel tank fill lines and vents. Any stain around a joint could be an indication of a leak.
•Test all fittings with a wrench to be sure they are not loose, but do not forcefully overtighten the fittings.
•Clean fuel filters and vent screens.
1.Oil
If there is oil contamination, look for leaks in engine oil lines and engine gaskets. If parts of the bilge have been stained by oil, the stain can be removed using a bilge cleaner available from your dealer or a marine store.
!WARNING
Work on electrical wiring can create shock hazards or sparks.
Always shut off battery switch, breakers and/or pull fuses before checking electrical wiring or connectors.
8.4 | 250 Sportfish® |