Common Reasons for a Boat to Break Down
When a boat breaks down, it can be an inconvenient situation that can leave you stranded. It is, therefore, important to find out common situations for a boat to break down and how to prepare for them. At White's Marine Center, we have a nice selection of boats in Pittsburg, Missouri which serves Kansas City and Springfield, Missouri.
Boat Is Slowing Down
If you feel like your boat is slowing down but you have enough fuel, it could be one of two things going on. There may be a problem with your filters or the plugs could be fouled. In order to fix this issue, just replace the filter. To prevent this from happening again, don't allow the fuel in your boat to go bad.
Another reason why your boat is slowing down is that you could have an issue with your spark plug. If that is the case, you may want to keep some spares on board your boat for emergency situations.
The Belt Is Broken
Your alternator and water pump won't work with a broken belt. If the belt is broken, your overheat warning light will come on. Looking at the voltage meter, you will also see that the alternator isn't charging. Keep some spares and wrenches on the boat to replace them just in case. Inspect your belt before using it and tighten it when necessary.
Engine Is Overheated
If your temperature gauge needle rises, your engine may be overheated. In order to prevent this from happening, service the engine regularly and replace the impeller when necessary.
Engine Won’t Start
The boat not starting points to an electrical issue. You should check the kill switch. In order to prevent this issue, regularly inspect, clean, and replace wires. Use a wire brush and corrosion-preventing lubricant to clean terminals.
The Boat Is Shaking
If you notice the vibration of your boat increases the faster you go, you may need to have a look at it. Something could be wrong with the prop. Always have a spare prop as well as some gloves to use when replacing the prop just in case.
Gears Aren't Shifting
When leaving the dock with your boat, you may notice that the boat can't go any faster than idle speed. It could be that the shifter is not engaging with the transmission. Your transmission could be failing because there is a lack of fluid. To keep this from happening in the future, top off the levels when necessary.
Boat Won't Steer
If you are unable to steer your boat, there may not be enough hydraulic fluid in the steering system due to leaking. Use a small funnel to add hydraulic fluid into the steering system.
There are many reasons why a boat may break down. The fuel could be bad, or there may be issues with the spark plug. You may have a broken belt. The engine could be overheated. There may be an electrical issue. The prop may need to be replaced. Hydraulic fluid may need to be added to the steering system. We can help you find a nice boat at White's Marine Center in Pittsburg, Missouri. We serve Kansas City and Springfield, Missouri.