Let’s Get Started
We boaters can take a lesson from pilots, who perform a simple walkaround of their craft before each and every use. They know taking a few short minutes to do this every time is key to safety and enjoyment. Each time before you go boating, you should do the same.
In the pre-launch checklist below, you’ll find information that you can use to help make sure you fully enjoy your day on the water. It’s regular attention to these basic items that will help make boating the safe and enjoyable experience it’s meant to be.
Keep in mind you’re never alone.
- Yamaha dealers stand ready to help. With approximately 2,000 authorized Yamaha Marine dealers nationwide, one can assist you with proper maintenance of your Yamaha outboard. From regular maintenance to installation of parts and accessories, they have the tools and the training to do the job right. And they feature Genuine Yamaha and Yamalube® maintenance and care products. That’s important.
PRE-LAUNCH
CHECKLIST
Inspect dock and heaving lines
Check navigation lights
Check anchor and tackle
Inspect trailer winch
Care for rear wheels of your tow vehicle the same as trailer wheels (see #9)
Ensure registration numbers are properly displayed, plus current registration and other necessary 5 documentation is onboard
Ensure trailer hitch and safety chains are secure, and inspect trailer wires and connections
Check hull for damage, soft spots or blistering
Grease bearings, ensure lug nuts are tight and not rusting, check tire tread and pressure
Test bilge pump
Check gauges
Test marine radio
Check magnetic compass, charts and navigation tools
Check engine oil for level and color
Check fuel system for leaks (visual and “sniff test”). Check fuel level for trip (1/3 out, 1/3 return, 1/3 spare)
Ensure battery connections are clean and tight
Replace anodes if over half gone
Check propeller for damage, shaft for debris, prop nut torque
Test trim, tilt supports and inspect rams. Ensure proper trailering support is used
Ensure scuppers are clear, bilge clean and drain plug installed
Check transom for cracks
Inspect trailer bunks for damaged boards or torn carpet
Inspect trailer bunks for damaged boards or torn carpet
Ensure trailer lights are sealed and working
- Inspect dock and heaving lines
- Check navigation lights
- Check anchor and tackle
- Inspect trailer winch
- Care for rear wheels of your tow vehicle the same as trailer wheels (see #9)
- Ensure registration numbers are properly displayed, plus current registration and other necessary 5 documentation is onboard
- Ensure trailer hitch and safety chains are secure, and inspect trailer wires and connections
- Check hull for damage, soft spots or blistering
- Grease bearings, ensure lug nuts are tight and not rusting, check tire tread and pressure
- Test bilge pump
- Check gauges
- Test marine radio
- Check magnetic compass, charts and navigation tools
- Check engine oil for level and color
- Check fuel system for leaks (visual and “sniff test”). Check fuel level for trip (1/3 out, 1/3 return, 1/3 spare)
- Ensure battery connections are clean and tight
- Replace anodes if over half gone
- Check propeller for damage, shaft for debris, prop nut torque
- Test trim, tilt supports and inspect rams. Ensure proper trailering support is used
- Ensure scuppers are clear, bilge clean and drain plug installed
- Check transom for cracks
- Inspect trailer bunks for damaged boards or torn carpet
- Ensure trailer lights are sealed and working