Bass Pro Shops Broken Arrow, OK

You always hear about winterizing your boat, but do you ever hear of de-winterizing? The answer is not as often as you should. Taking the right steps to getting your boat back on the water is just as important as making sure your boat doesn't fail during the winter.

The best thing to do is to go through a checklist to make sure you don't forget to check everything before you rocket out of the hole for your first springtime trip. The following checklist will help you to hit the high points of good boat maintenance.

• Fuel System- Examine for any soft, brittle, or obviously cracked hoses. Inspect the fuel system for any leaks, paying special attention to any damaged connections. You may also consider running a fuel treatment like Star Bright Star Tron Enzyme Fuel Treatment this can help clear any buildup that may have happened over the winter.
• Electrical Systems- Check that connections are clean and tight. Any corrosion needs attention as it could lead to costly repairs. Clean battery terminals with a wire brush and have your battery tested by a professional to ensure it is holding its charge. A good electrical system is maintained frequently. Check your battery charger too, and if you have any doubts do yourself a favor and replace it with a new XPS Intelligent Technology Series On-Board Marine Battery Charger.
• Propeller and Hulls- Drive train damage can result from dents, dings, and distortion to your prop. Inspect to make sure you aren't causing any excess vibration. For your hull inspection look for blisters, distortions, and cracks. Always use environmentally friendly soaps as well. Check out Bass Pro Shops whole lineup of Boat Care Products here.
• Belts Cables and Hoses- These parts are subject to wear and deterioration during the winter. Check that all belts are snug and no hoses are cracked or showing wear. These can be some of the easiest problems to prevent. Also be sure to check your bilge pump thoroughly, and if you need a replacement or want an automatic pump, Bass Pro has you covered, check out the Bilge Pump Selection.
• Fluids- Oil, coolant, power steering, and power trip are all liquid systems and require an inspection. Also, if you didn't replace your oil, oil filter, and drive lubricants prior to winterizing, these need to be changed. Mercury Quicksilver is a popular choice.
• Safety Equipment- Last but certainly not least, is your safety equipment. Check that all life jackets are in good repair and that you have enough for all potential passengers and a spare. Also keep in mind that children will need different life jackets from adults. Giving a child the wrong life jacket can do more harm than good. Check that your fire extinguisher is fully charged and ready. And take advantage of any free safety inspections, as another set of eyes is sometimes all it takes to prevent an accident, or make sure you are prepared.

These checks are a part of boat ownership and will give you a sense of satisfaction and pride in your vessel.