While it's true that not everybody considers this time of year to be a bad season for boating, the truth is that the other months of the year provide much better experiences that make boating in the cold even less desirable. Of course, that doesn't mean you can't spend time with your pride and joy!

Give Your Boat Some TLC While It's out of the Water

If you have been looking for reasons to spend time with your boat out of the water, Synthetic Solutions has a great list of boat maintenance tips to share which can help you stay at one with your boat.

A Clean Boat Is a Healthy Boat

When you're out driving, small bits of debris from the water and air make their way into hidden spaces around and inside your boat. If left to accumulate, they can cause serious damage and costly repairs. Give your boat a good soaping with purpose designed boat fluid and a gentle but thorough sponge. Pay attention to difficult places which you might otherwise have overlooked, including around railing connections and behind exposed cables.

A Safe Boat Is a...well, Safe Boat

Staying safe on the water is paramount to all owners and passengers, which is why it's important to ensure your boat is as safe as possible. The first thing to check is your emergency box/bag. Look through the contents and make sure that everything is still in working order. If you notice that something is missing, or you are about to run out of another item, stock it up completely. Key items to make sure you have included:

• Flares
• LED beacons
• First-aid Kit
• Battery-powered radio
• Offline navigation device/map
• Flashlights

Next, check the safety features of your boat, including:

• Safety rails and guides
• Non-slip stair tape
• Reflective safety tape
• Emergency lighting
• Any included generator
• Lifejackets
• Fire Extinguisher

Of course, if your vessel includes additional safety items and features, be sure they are in good condition and can do their job. If you find that you have different passengers on your boat often, consider making up sheet with basic information on safety features, how to operate emergency equipment, and general tips for staying safe aboard a boat. For all your boat engine fluid and lubricants, speak with Synthetic Solutions at (919) 600-2749 and ask about the range of high-quality and purpose designed marine focused products from AMSOIL.

A Topped up Boat Is a Smooth Running Boat

The type of fluids that your boat uses will depend on the type of boat you own. Large boats with power steering will find they need to replace their power steering fluid, right down to single person vessels that simply require a synthetic oil change as part of their maintenance. However many and whichever type of fluids your boat uses, check their levels, check their quality, and either top them up or replace them completely.

A Powered Boat Is a Comfortable Boat

Many modern boats boast features such as LED cabin lighting,  touch-screen panel displays, right through to power outlets for device charging. As advanced as they are, each of these features relies on cables and wires; both of which can become damaged easily in salt air. Don't be afraid to open any cabin compartments which are accessible to check the condition of your wiring. If you notice any fraying or corrosion, get it sorted before you take your boat out next. The last thing that you want is to be stuck out on the water and have your electronics fail you.

A Boat with an Intact Propeller Is a Well Propelled Boat

It only takes the smallest amount of give from a loose bolt to cause vibrations through your propellor. When this happens, you can lose a good amount of thrust and a decent amount of control. With a completely washed and dry propeller, turn on some bright lights and give it a thorough inspection. Large dents may be obvious, but run your fingers over the propellor to identify any smaller ones, along with small cuts or chips cut away.

Keep Your Boat's Engine in Good Condition with a Synthetic Oil Change in Raleigh

It doesn't take much to keep a boat in good shape; it just takes the right tips and a little bit of time. To keep your boat's engine in the best condition, speak with Synthetic Solutions at (919) 600-2749 to find out which high-quality AMSOIL engine lubricant is best suited to your vessel's engine. If you prefer, the online store has additional information on all of the products available, including the line of marine focused engine oils.