Canadian Yachting - April 2011

SPRING CHECKLIST
It’s Spring – Make a list!

By Glen Cairns

THE SUN IS actually giving off heat and the spring melt has finally started. Now it’s off to the boatyard to check on the boat. Perhaps it’s the elation Canadians feel at the end of winter, but every spring boats get launched only to reveal problems large and small that will plague the owner over the summer, delay the boating season, or worse yet, the boat just heads straight to the bottom, all for the lack of a proper check-up before launch.

Aircraft pilots always use checklists; even the most experienced person can overlook something and in the case of an airplane, it can have deadly consequences. While getting a call from the marina that your boat is on the bottom may not be life threatening, it is, none the less, a very big disappointment, to say nothing of potentially very expensive.

While this list is just a general outline, you can develop a checklist specific to your boat and have the peace of mind that at least the most obvious problems have been addressed.

Hopefully the hull was properly cleaned on haul-out!

7. If a bow thruster is fitted, make sure the tunnel and propeller are clear and replace the zincs.

Follow a comprehensive checklist to make sure this does not happen to you.

4. Move the rudder to be sure the shaft is free and not bent. Lubricate.

5. Check all intake strainers (especially the engine) to be sure they are clean and free from debris.

6. Be sure the depth sounder transducer is clear and be careful not to get anti-fouling on it. The same goes for knot log impellors.

DECK INSPECTION

1. Look for stress cracking, especially around stanchions and cleats.

2. Make sure the cockpit drains are clear of leaves, etc.

3. Check that the helm is operating smoothly.

4. Make sure the anchor windlass is operating properly and inspect ground tackle.

ESPECIALLY FOR SAILBOATS

1. Carefully clean the mast. Make sure not to use any harsh chemicals which can damage the aluminum.

2. Inspect the spars for cracks and check fittings, tangs, etc.

HULL INSPECTION

1. Inspect the hull for stress cracks or distortion. These can be caused over the winter by improper placement of jack stands, or by the hull not sitting in the correct position on the cradle. Look carefully for any signs of blistering due to water absorption.