RICHARDSONS YACHT SERVICES TURE What general maintenance do boat owners need to consider annually? At the end of the season check any equipment that may have an TISING FEA expiry date – e.g. flares and purchase replacements, if necessary. Check lifejackets and liferaft servicing date and get it booked in early, ADVER if required. Consider removing all sails (all head sails must be removed if the boat is stored ashore for a term), consider getting them cleaned/ serviced. Drain down the freshwater system – if the boat is not being used. Empty the holding tanks and flush the system with fresh water/ tank cleaner. Top up the fuel tank to avoid condensation and related problems. Set up a heater/dehumidifier onboard. Lift mattresses, cushions and any soft furnishing to allow air flow (this helps to prevent damp and mould). Wash all blocks, jammers, etc with freshwater to remove salt deposits. Check all skin fittings are operating correctly and not showing any signs of wear. Engine - If a boat is winterised ashore then we would recommend laying up the engine for winter – this includes flushing through the saltwater system with an anti-freeze mix, injecting intakes with corrosion inhibitor, checking the specific gravity of the antifreeze solution (change/replenish), remove salt water pump impeller and check components, cover inlet/exhaust, remove drive belts, check external condition of components (are there any areas that need attention?), check batteries for charge and put on trickle charge for the winter. Carry out a full service to the engine, upon launch in the spring recommission it. Hull (below waterline) – apply a fresh coat of antifoul and check/ change any anodes that are showing signs of wear. Apply a hard antifoul to propeller and stern gear or a suitable alternative. Hull (above waterline) – clean and polish topsides and superstructure including any stainless-steel rails, etc – if you like to see the shine! Upon launch – refit sails (check rigging), refill freshwater tank, carry out general check to all equipment in preparation for the season ahead. What is your vision for the future? Our aim is to continue to grow the services we offer our customers, whilst striving hard to maintain our high level of customer service. We have seen steady growth over the last few years and are working hard to maintain this. How can we contact you? You can visit our website richardsonsyacht.co.uk, follow us on Instagram: @richardsonsyacht Facebook: richardsonsyachtservices Twitter: @RichardsonYacht Chandlery enquires – [email protected] Office enquires – [email protected] Call 01983 821095 27 solenthandbook.com