---
title: Boat preventive maintenance
description: Inspect and checkall the engine components and fluids. Engine/Running Gear maintenance tips.
image: https://21118949.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/21118949/courses/pcoc2021/images/fires-on-board-2.png
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## Tips to properly care for your boat

**Keeping your boat in good working order is just as much a part of the boating experience as the boating itself. When a pleasure craft functions properly, breakdown probabilities are minimized.** 

You should get in the habit of not only inspecting and checking all the engine components and fluids each and every time you go boating, but also doing periodic maintenance.

![Fires on board](https://21118949.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hub/21118949/hubfs/courses/pcoc2021/images/fires-on-board-2.png?width=1100&height=619&name=fires-on-board-2.png)

### Engine/Running Gear maintenance tips include:

- Change oil frequently - following manufacturer's minimum recommendations or once each season.
- Check and replace any belts or hoses that appear to be deteriorating.
- Check for oil and/or water leaks every time before leaving the dock.
- Flush your engine with fresh water after operating in salt water.
- Check impellers and pumps to anticipate a failure.
- Watch for the beginning of corrosion, especially on battery terminals, and take measures to stop it before it becomes a problem. Clean battery terminals and electrical connections by disconnecting them and removing corrosion with a wire brush.   
- Check and service transmissions and lower units according to manufacturer's recommendations.
- Change fluids on a recommended schedule or at least once each season.
- Keep shafts and props in clean and good working order.
- Check all through-hull fittings for leakage and corrosion. Make sure that their valves are operational and can be opened and closed.
- Check the condition of the navigation lights.
- Check and clean the engine’s back-fire flame arrestor.
- Clean and tighten any corroded or loose electrical connections.
- Check all water strainers to make sure that they are clean and free of debris.

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#### Boating License & Pleasure Craft Operator Card online exam - Accredited Transport Canada

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