Aluminium Boat Maintenance
Updated: Sep 8
Aluminium Boat Maintenance: Simple Tips to Keep Your Boat in Good Shape
Looking after your aluminium boat doesn't have to be a big job. A few regular checks and a bit of cleaning can help keep your boat in good condition and pick up small problems before they turn into bigger repairs.
Whether you're out fishing every weekend or the boat spends a bit of time sitting at the marina, it's worth giving it a proper check over from time to time.
Here are some of the things we recommend keeping an eye on.
[Remember to consult your owner’s manual for specific advice.]
Give Your Boat a Good Clean
After you've been out in saltwater, give the boat a good rinse with fresh water.
Salt, dirt and sand can build up around fittings, underneath flooring, inside compartments and in other hard to reach spots.
You don't need to go overboard with the scrubbing. A good rinse and a suitable mild cleaner will usually do the job.
TIP: If you've got carpet, mats or other loose surfaces on the deck, lift them up and let everything dry properly. You might be surprised how much moisture and sand can hide underneath.
Check the Hull and Interior
Have a good look around the hull and inside the boat regularly.
Check for:
Damage or dents
Loose fittings
Damaged fasteners
Cracks around fittings or welds
Leaks or water where it shouldn't be
Signs of corrosion or pitting
If you find corrosion and you're not sure what you're looking at, have a look at our guide to . [Aluminium Boat Corrosion].
It's much easier to deal with a small problem early than leave it until it becomes a bigger aluminium boat repair.
Check Your Drainage
Make sure bung holes, scuppers and other drainage points are clear.
Sand, dirt, leaves and general boat rubbish have a habit of finding their way into places they shouldn't.
Water sitting inside compartments or other areas of the boat can cause problems over time, so keeping everything draining properly is an easy bit of boat maintenance that often gets overlooked.
Check Your Anodes
Sacrificial anodes are there to help protect your aluminium boat.
Check them regularly and make sure they are the correct type and still have plenty of material left.
If they are disappearing quickly or something doesn't look right, it's worth getting it checked rather than simply replacing them and forgetting about it.
Check Your Sealant and Fittings
Have a look around fittings, hatches, windows and other areas where sealant is used to keep water out.
If sealant is cracked, lifting, mouldy or starting to fail, it may need replacing.
Also check that fittings, bolts and other hardware are secure and haven't worked loose.
Check Your Electrical Systems
Have a look over your wiring, lights, batteries and electrical connections.
Look for damaged wiring, loose connections or corrosion around electrical components.
If you're not confident working on the electrical side of things, get a qualified marine electrician to check it rather than guessing.
Check Your Fuel System
Regularly check fuel lines, connections and the area around your fuel tank for signs of leaks, cracks or damage.
If you have an aluminium fuel tank, it's also worth checking for corrosion or damage.
We've got a separate article covering [aluminium boat fuel tank maintenance and safety] if you want to know what to look for.
Don't Forget the Trailer
Your boat might be in good nick, but don't forget what it's sitting on.
Boat trailers are regularly exposed to saltwater, road grime and the weather, so they need some attention too.
Give the trailer a good freshwater rinse after launching and keep an eye on the brakes, bearings, rollers, winch, lights, tyres, coupling and frame.
For more information, have a look at our [Boat Trailer Maintenance Guide].
Get the Mechanical Side Checked
There are plenty of things on a boat that aren't really a DIY job.
If your boat has been sitting for a while, it's a good idea to have the engine and mechanical systems checked by a marine mechanic.
Things such as servicing, fluids, cooling systems, steering, throttle, propellers and other engine components should be looked after according to your manufacturer's recommendations.
Remember to check your owner's manual for the specific servicing requirements for your boat and engine.
Check Your Navigation and Safety Gear
Before heading out, check that your GPS, VHF radio, lights and other navigation equipment are working properly.
It's also worth checking your life jackets, first aid kit and other required safety equipment.
Make sure everything is in good condition and easy to get to.
You don't want to find out something doesn't work when you're already out on the water.
Keep a Few Spares On Board
It’s worth carrying a few basic spares and tools with you.
Depending on your boat, this might include spare fuses, bulbs, basic tools and other items you know you may need.
It doesn't take up much room and can save a lot of hassle when you're out on the water.
Check Your Insurance and Documents
Make sure your boat insurance is current and that you have any required documentation available.
It's also worth checking that your Coastguard membership or other emergency assistance cover is up to date.
A Quick Check Before You Head Out
You don't need to pull the whole boat apart every time you go fishing.
A quick check before heading out can catch a lot of small problems early.
Have a look around the boat, check your fuel and electrical systems, make sure your safety gear is on board and have a quick look underneath and around the hull.
Regular aluminium boat maintenance is a lot easier than dealing with a repair that could have been avoided.
Need a Hand With Your Aluminium Boat?
If you've found a leak, damaged aluminium, a loose fitting or something else that needs attention, Fusion Fabrication can help.
We carry out aluminium boat repairs, aluminium welding, hull repairs, boat modifications and marine fabrication in Tauranga and around the Bay of Plenty.
Disclaimer: The advice and information provided in this blog are intended for general guidance only. While we strive to offer accurate and helpful insights, we recommend conducting further research and consulting relevant experts or manuals. Fusion Fabrication holds no responsibility for any actions taken based on the content of this blog. Always follow the specific recommendations provided in your owner’s manuals and professional advice.
