SPRING TIME TUNE-UP SERVICES TO THINK ABOUT
DE-WINTERIZE/MAKE-READY:
Most places that winterize a boat leave the boat ready to go for the Spring (all hoses and drain plugs are back in place) so that all that really needs to be done is charge your battery and head to the lake. However, it is still a good idea to wave a professional service facility do this service for you to ensure trouble-free boating on your first trip. Be sure to call a couple of weeks before your first scheduled trip.
Estimated cost: $65.00 labor
ENGINE TUNE-UP:
Engines need to be tuned up every few years to make sure that the are running at peak performance and to ensure trouble-free boating for the up coming season.
Outboard tune-ups consist of checking compression, changing spark plugs, changing gear lube, running and inspecting engine on a hose flushing attachment, and test running on the lake.
Estimated cost: $65.00 to $95.00 labor + parts ($30 - $60 est.)
OIL CHANGE (INBOARD & I/O)
Oil changes on inboard and inboard/outboard engines are something that should be done every season. They are relatively in-expensive and can prevent major repair work down the road. The service includes replacement of all oil & fuel filters, draining and replacing oil, changing gear lube, greasing fittings, inspecting fluid levels, & running engine on flushing attachment to inspect for leaks or problems.
Estimated cost: $65.00 to $130.00 labor + parts (varies by engine)
WATER PUMP SERVICE
Depending on the type of engine and where an engine is run, water pumps should be replaced every 1-3 years. Just because an engine does not have a lot of hours on it does not mean that this service can be overlooked. Water pump impellers are made out of rubber, over time the rubber looses it's strength and/or can become damaged from ingestion of sand or other foreign materials. The impeller can also develop a "set" meaning that from sitting in one position and not being used, it is not as flexible.
Replacing most water pumps requires the lower-unit to be pulled off and a new water pump kit to be installed, flushing cooling system, replacing lower unit, and test running on the lake.
Estimated cost: $92.50 labor + parts (varies by engine - average $60.00)