So, You Just Bought a Boat, Now What?

Congrats on your new boat! Did you know know...? Today, the average boat is more than 20 years old, and getting older. Whether your boat is used or brand new, there are a few things you want to do before enjoying your time on the water. Pacer has everything you need including marine wire, electrical components, wire management and tools to ensure your electrical connections function properly. Before I get into the schematics, as always, we want your boating days to be an enjoyable and memorable experience. With that being said, always, always, make sure that before you leave the dock, you have on board all your safety equipment, including what is required by law. These items include, but are not limited to life jackets, distress signals, flashlights and spare batteries, fire extinguishers as well as tools and spares.

"Being a boat owner, you definitely want to know every major system, especially the plumbing and electrical."

One of the first of many things that you will want to do before taking your boat out is to become familiar with every aspect, bow to stern. Being a boat owner, you definitely want to know every major system, especially the plumbing and electrical. Start by locating every thru hull, seacock, and strainers so you know where water could come in case of an emergency. Know where every pump is located and what each one does. Spend some time looking at your electrical panel to understand what does what. This also includes finding your battery and battery switches, know how they operate, which battery powers what. Whether you are a new boater or experienced, becoming familiar with your new vessel is key.

Always be prepared. Boating enthusiasts have come up with a list of tools to keep on board. No, I’m not talking about that bargain tool kit from your local marine supply store, I’m referring to a few specialty items that will make fixes and routine maintenance so much easier. Pacer is your one stop shop for all of your electrical component needs, we are your electrical solutions provider. Visit us online at pacergroup.net or stop in to our Hollywood location to pick up anything from marine wire, battery cable, terminals, electrical components, wire management and tools.

Here are a few items that Pacer offers and recommends keeping on your boat:

Fuses:  Blown fuses are a common problem when boats mysteriously won’t work. Carry a set of replacement fuses so that if you experience any issues, you can check the fuse block and easily replace any fuse that is blown.

Wire Stripper/Cutter/Crimpers:  Every boating enthusiast will want to keep a pair of these along with a few spare terminals and connectors. They will make repairing any wire or cable job much easier. My go to is the  Klein cutter, the one-hand shearing action makes a precise, clean cut.

Multimeter: This is a great tool for trouble shooting. Easy to use and very efficient. A digital multimeter is an important tool for monitoring and testing the electrical system in a boat. The VT-8110 is a multiple function meter used to help boaters troubleshoot electrical systems and make safety checks. The compact size of this meter makes it ideal for portability.



 

Battery Charger: Especially if you are enjoying a day out on a sandbar somewhere or anchored while fishing, you don’t want to be without one of these bad boys. 

Jumper Cables: Weather you need your battery jumped or need to help a fellow boater, this is an essential item to keep on your boat. I know I wouldn’t want to get stranded in open waters…

Wrench: No boater should leave the dock without a pair of these on board.

Water dispersant/lubricant: A spray can of Corrosion X or something similar is standard equipment on most boats. You will want something that fights corrosion and frees up corroded bolts, can be used to clean away grease or oil, can temporarily help conduct power through corroded wiring/battery terminals and helps disperse water from wiring, fuses, and terminals. 

Cable ties: These are a must-have for any boater. Carry a wide variety of different size  cable ties that can be used for a range of tasks such as temporary fasteners or tidying up loose wiring, cable ties are easy to use.



 

Having the proper tools to help yourself is essential, but even that may not be enough. You never know disaster can strike and sometimes you may need assistance. Therefore, it pays to have Sea Tow. Having a Sea Tow membership is essential when you own a boat. Whether you need a tow, fuel drop, or jump start, it is highly recommended for every boater.
 

Click here to Learn More about Sea Tow

So now you have a basic idea of how to be prepared for the water. Always remember, experience comes with time. If you are unsure of something on your boat, research it until you figure out what you need to do. If you feel unsafe in a given boating situation, be smart, and play it safe. Learn all you can and make the most out of your boating experience.

Resource Links:

https://www.discoverboating.com/owning/maintenance/departure.aspx https://www.powerandmotoryacht.com/maintenance/15_essential_tools_for_your_boat https://www.beaufortsportfishing.com/how-to-fish/12-volt-boat-electrical-systems.html https://www.seatow.com/actnow?gclid=CMr_n4yu8NUCFcpZhgod48YEWA