Top 3 Boat Issues & How to Solve Them

As most boaters are aware, maintenance and service are necessary components to ownership. Although it can be stressful, boats will likely going to break down from time to time. While a Recreational Marine Insurance Program will help curb the financial costs of repair, the following are common issues boats face that should be quickly identified and resolved.

Sputtering and Losing Power- If the boat still has plenty of fuel and is losing power, the issue is likely a result of worn out plugs or a filter issue.

Solution- Boating Mag states to replace the in-line fuel filter or remove and clear the filter element of any debris and drain any accumulated water. In addition, allow the engine to vent prior to restarting to avoid future issues. If possible, carry an additional filter for backup.

The Drive Belt Breaks- The overheating warning alert is on and the alternator isn’t charging. As this controls the alternator and water pump, this small piece if critical for many boat models.

Solution- The easiest solution is to replace the belt with a new one. As these are typically included in marine tool kits, this is a quick fix. To prevent further incidents, consider inspecting, tightening, and dressing the belt.

Overheating Engine- The temperature gauge is in the red, causing severe concern. Boating Mag clarifies that this almost always means a lack of water flow is present in the cooling loop. As most watercrafts use the water they float on for cooling the engine, a cease in water flow will cause the engine to overheat and fail.

Solution- Ensure the water intake pipes are free of debris, weeds, or inanimate objects that might have gotten stuck. If the pipes are clear, check the surrounding hoses for splits, bursts, or loosening. Regularly service the boat to maintain engine health.

These common issues with boats are the most prominent among boaters. Next week, we will discuss the remaining boat problems and how to resolve them in order to save time and money.

At Merrimac Marine Insurance, LLC, we specialize in the recreational boating industry. We underwrite comprehensive insurance packages to protect the industry’s professionals and businesses. For more information, contact us today at (888) 344-1687.