Port Royale’s Service Team will be answering your day-to-day service questions via lakelanier.com. Please feel free to submit a question for consideration. Your question will appear online so all boat enthusiasts can benefit from the answer.
Kevin Allen, Corporate Service Director for all Park Marine Service Centers, has been a valuable T.E.I. asset for 8 years. Certified in Yamaha and an experienced watercraft and boat technician since 2002 and currently attending classes to receive his BA in Business, Kevin offers his expertise to you weekly, here on lakelanier.com.
Q: What is the importance of having my boat summer-ized?
A: After the boat sits all winter, in the majority of cases, you won’t know if it will even start until you back in down the ramp and into the water. If it doesn’t start, you’ve put yourself in a bit of a compromising situation. When you have a technician check it out, you’ll know what’s working and not working prior to this point of “knowing.”
Additionally, it helps to maintain the boat’s performance and safety.
Q: Do I need to have the oil changed even if I didn’t use the boat?
A: Yes, I recommend it to all our customers as it is a standard recommendation of the manufacturers today. The main reason for this is if the boat is sitting, the viscosity breaks down and the oil that’s there is then, less efficient in lubricating the engine.
Q: What’s the best way to maintain my battery?
A: Quick bullets:
- disconnect it during the winter months
- charge it once a month for four to six hours on low ampage during the winter
- store it indoors during the winter if at all possible; the cold will drain it’s power
TIP: Batteries lose voltage when they’re not being used and when you do hook them up, be sure THE CABLES ARE GOOD AND TIGHT! This is a common error.
Q: How often should my cooling system be serviced?
A: Most manufacturers recommend every two seasons. Here’s what’s involved:
• replacement of the impeller
• inspection and replacement of thermostat and gasket
• full inspection of cooling hoses
Q: What items do I need to carry on my boat to meet lake regulations?
A: Here’s the list:
- fire extinguisher
- horn or whistle
- throw cushions
- life jackets, one per person on board