How to Solve Common Boat Problems
No one wants to experience a problem with their boat. There is never a good time for your boat to break down, especially when you are looking forward to taking it out on the water. Boat problems can be even worse when they happen when you are out for a ride with friends and family. This guide offers some simple fixes you can try for the most common boat problems you may experience. To get more detailed advice from our staff, check out Fish and Ski Marine in Sanger and New Braunfels, Texas. We welcome customers from Dallas and San Antonio, Texas.
When It Doesn't Start
If your boat does not start when you put it into the ignition, you most likely have an electrical issue. Check the kill switch to see if that is the problem. The starter switch might be loose, too. If you get it to start and it groans, it may indicate a poor connection.
When It Won't Shift
If you cannot get the boat shifted out neutral, you might have a problem with the transmission. Look at the gearbox to see if any transmission housing cables are detached.
When You Lose Steering
One of the worst boat problems is losing your ability to steer. A locked wheel can be caused by a low hydraulic fluid or a mechanical failure. If you have enough hydraulic fluid, look at the connections in the cable system near the steering arm.
When Water Rises in the Bilge
A straining bilge pump can indicate a major boat problem. You may even feel your boat getting heavier, which means that it is retaining water. The most obvious thing to check is to see if you forgot the transom drain plug. An improperly placed drain plug can lead to a burst hose, which needs to be changed immediately.
When the Engine Sputters and Loses Power
Sputtering is a common issue you will see on a boat. You can usually follow this situation back to a bad filter or plug. See if you need to change the in-line fuel filter or clean any of the boat plugs.
When the Engine Overheats
It can be terrifying to watch the temperature gauge rise on your boat. Thankfully, this problem is usually associated with water flow issues. You can check for blockages in the cooling loop and flush it out for a quick fix.
Try not to let your boat problems get you down. You can find all the help you need at Fish and Ski Marine, located in Sanger and New Braunfels, Texas. Our team proudly serves San Antonio and Dallas, Texas.