Author: Boat Accessories Australia Date Posted: 14 June 2016
Boat Maintenance – Equipment
Tool Kit
Having a waterproof or preferably airtight marine tool box on board can be extremely useful for fixing minor problems on-board your boat, from soldering faulty connections to making last-minute adjustments to equipment onboard.
Tinned Single Core Cable | Torch LED Waterproof Floating Style |
Though there is an exhaustive amount of spare parts that can be kept, here are some common ones that will suit a variety of applications -
Inox Lubricant 300g Can | Tef-Gel Corrosion Eliminator 10g Syringe |
Navigation Lights
By law, navigation lights and their installation on recreational vessels are required to comply with the positioning and technical requirements of an international agreement commonly known as the International Regulations for Preventing Collision at Sea 1972 (COLREGS).
All vessels must show lights if operating at night or in restricted visibility. Even a vessel that doesn’t travel between dusk and dawn may still need to show lights, for example, during a heavy rain shower or when at anchor.
Different lights are required based on the size of the vessel and whether or not it’s motorised but this is different in each state. Refer to your local government to find out what is required for your boat.
Maintenance of marine navigation lights is extremely important for the safety of ships and being located on the ships outside can mean they are heavily affected by water, vibrations, sun light & wind as well as wire securing.
Periodically check the light fittings for leakage of water and ensure to apply water-resistant material like silicon or putty whenever the light fitting is opened up for replacing bulbs. Ensure to use vibration absorbing material like rubber gaskets wherever possible and tighten any loose nut bolts and holders when working on a light.
Check any loose wiring connections and secure them using cable ties. Clean the wiring terminals and check them for corrosion and a tight mechanical fit.
Navigation Lights with Rubber Gasket | 3M Marine Grade Silicone Sealant |
Rope and Lines
Inspect any ropes and lines for any wear or damage caused by dirt or salt and make sure to frequently wash with fresh water.
For a more thorough cleaning, soak your rope in warm water mixed with a mild detergent. Add a small amount of fabric softener to soften and use a front loading washing machine; otherwise, wash your rope in a mesh bag to avoid tangling. Rinse thoroughly and hang to dry in indirect sunlight.
Latest Boating Guides
Boating guides have been developed for popular boating locations and contain local marine safety information including boating hazards, facilities, speed-restricted areas, water-ski, PWC and closed water areas. Most guides are available in PDF form that you can find through your local government.
Choose the state you’re in below and click the link to find the latest boating guides in your area:
Latest Boating Stickers
Registration numbers must be affixed as follows:
Recreational Skippers Ticket
You should notify the Department of Transport within 21 days if:
That's it for now, stay tuned as we'll have our final maintenance blog out soon to teach you how to keep your boat trailer maintained and updated for taking out to the boat ramp.