Boating Maintenance Tips

The upkeep of a boat, whether it be the family pontoon boat or your well used fishing boat, is very important through every month of the year. Regardless of the season, boat owners need to be mindful of the way they care for their boats. Here are some helpful hints to follow when it comes to maintaining your boat.

Pull the Drain Plug

Whenever you park your boat, it is important to remove the drain plug. When the boat is not in use, rain can easily fill your bilge and affect the boat’s mechanical functions, including the starter. Also, keep in mind that bilge pumps only work for short durations of time as they are powered by the battery.

Outboard Motor Care

Boats that are equipped with an outboard motor should not sit for extensive periods of time. When that happens, the fuel has a tendency to gel with the carburetor jets. To avoid that from occurring, add some stabilizer to your fuel and let the motor run for about 10 minutes. This protects your boat carburetor and provides it with longer life.

Check for Leaks Above the Water Line

While a leak above the water line is not as severe as ones below the water lines, it could cause problems. Every now and then it is a good idea to spray your boat down with a hose and look for any leaks near the windows and portals. Also, check for any cracks or crevices in the deck hardware, such as the cleats or railings. Be sure that the screws are tight and if there is a leak in the hardware remove and then reattach the item. This is especially recommended if you are considering a used boat for sale from anywhere other than a reputable dealer.

Use the Right Parts

It is inevitable that boating parts are going to go bad on your boat. When it comes time for replacement, make sure you use marine parts that have been approved by the manufacturer and do not try to substitute automotive parts. Finding the right parts is easy when you order through the specialist at New Hope Marine of Charlotte.

Routine Maintenance

Washing your boat after every trip can extend the life of your boat while the engine should be flushed after every usage. On bright sunny days, it is a good idea to open up all the hatches and windows. Airing out your boat will prevent the accumulation of moisture, mildew and corrosion.

New Hope Marine is the top provider of boating parts and services in the Charlotte area. Boating sales are also a specialty as New Hope Marine is fully equipped with a vast surplus of boating supplies to go along with a friendly and knowledgeable staff that is ready to help you.

Best Ways to Winterize Your Boat

Protecting your boat from the harsh winter months is integral to keeping it safe and functional in the summer months. Here’s a look at some helpful hints to consider when it comes time to winterize your pontoon boat in NC.

Take Cover

It may seem obvious to cover your boat, but what every owner should know is that not all boat covers are created equal. Winter months could create mold and mildew if covers are not secured properly. It is also important to spray your interior with some type of vinyl protectant. Wintry air can have its share of dryness and humidity, which can crack the vinyl interior.

Outboard Motor Upkeep

Using fresh water, flush out your engine. Also, be sure to remove the fuel from the carburetors to prevent any kind of buildup. Apply some light lubrication to the engine’s exterior. Some polish or wax will also work well on the engine. Remember to use quality boat parts when replacements are needed.

Clean the Bilge

Make an effort to clean the bilges and be conscious of removing any oil spillage. After the bilges are thoroughly cleaned, apply some type of spray lubricant. You can also drop in some antifreeze to ensure that no water freezes.

Fuel Down, Then Up

When left idle, fuel deteriorates and that could happen in as little as eight weeks. The result of this is a buildup of residue in the engine, leading to reduced engine life and weaker performance. Adding a fuel stabilizer will eliminate this issue and then it is important to fill up with new fuel. Start up the motor and let that treated fuel run through the system for a brief stint.

Drain and Lubricate

Proper winterization is critical to prevent freeze damage and to keep stale fuel from clogging your engine’s fuel system.  Failure to winterize can lead to costly repairs.  Stern-drive engine blocks and manifolds must be drained and should be filled with a bio-degradable antifreeze.  Changing the oil, oil filter and gear case lubricant is recommended during the winterization.  The old oil filter should be tossed and new oil should be added. During the winter months, that oil will gradually drain, so it is important to provide the engine components with some type of protection. The application of a fogging oil will provide that kind of protection and also prevent corrosion. A danger to any engine lies in water that remains through the winter months. Water in the gear shaft will bring about rust. This is where fogging oils come in handy since they act as a lubricant that protects your components.

If you are uncertain about how to properly winterize your boat, entrust it to the experts at New Hope Marine. With a full-service center, New Hope Marine has everything you need to get your boat ready for winter.  From OEM marine parts to expert service technicians, we can help your boat be ready to for spring.

The Importance of Major Brand Partners

There is a wide selection of choices in regards to boating parts and motors after choosing a new boat. No matter what you opt for, whether it be a slick fishing boat or more spacious Bennington pontoon boats, you will have plenty of motors and parts to complete the package. However, there are certain brands that come with a higher level of performance. New Hope Marine is proud to be an authorized dealer of some of the best names in the boating industry.

Bennington pontoon boat

 

Mercury motors are some of the most recognized in the boating world. However, not all dealers are authorized to sell or service this type of engine. New Hope Marine boat service center has been a long-time authorized Mercury Outboard Package Dealer. That means that the technicians have been trained to service Mercury engines.

Not only do the technicians at New Hope Marine know how to service Mercury engines, but they are up to date on all the latest products offered by Mercury, which include gauges, controls, props and other boating parts. Any Mercury questions can be answered with ease.

New Hope Marine also carries Yamaha products, and is a Pre-Paired Performance Yamaha Dealer. With that customers can be assured to receive a top quality Yamaha product, which also comes with various warranties. Yamaha replacement parts are all available and even routine service is done with Yamaha lubricants and oils for an optimum amount of efficiency.

Honda is another top brand in the boating industry and New Hope Marine is an authorized Honda Outboard Package Dealer. Customers can place special Honda outboard orders through New Hope Marine, which is also a Honda Warranty Repair Center. That allows owners to bring in their Honda motor and their warranty will be honored accordingly.

While there are an abundance of boating repair and boat sales establishments to choose from, not all of them are approved dealers. Entrusting an unauthorized dealer to make repairs could lead to more problems. The bottom line is that not all service technicians have been trained and approved by the top brands in the industry.

Furthermore, not all service centers will honor motor warranties. New Hope Marine not only has the parts to honor those warranties, but it also has service technicians who are trained in the finer points of those particular motors.

When most people talk about the world of boating, some of the top brand names enter into the conversation. Yamaha, Honda and Mercury are common terms and at New Hope Marine, the entire staff is well versed when it comes to all of those top brand names. Plus, they have made it is easier than ever to place a boating parts request. Simply visit https://newhopemarine.com/parts-request/

How Defensive Boating Can Help Boaters

Defensive boating is a way for boat operators to ensure the safety of everyone on board. Too many times, boat accidents are caused by operators who are not practicing the necessary defensive boating procedures. Here is a closer look at how defensive boating can help you.

First, it is important to point out that defensive boating does not imply that operators always need to be completely on the defensive. It simply means that boat operators need to be aware of everything happening in and around their watercraft Charlotte. Prepared and reactive to potential threats. Anticipating problems before they actually occur can be a lifesaver out on the open water.

Stay ahead of the weather

It is important to always stay alerted to what Mother Nature has in store. That means continually monitoring the weather and keeping an eye out for any signs of a possible storm or rough waters. The best way to deal with inclement weather is to remain as far away from it as possible.

Stay accountable

Whoever is captaining the boat is the one who is accountable for any issues. That kind of accountability applies to everyone in the boat as it is the job of the captain to make sure no one on board poses a threat with their behavior. Accountability also applies to knowing what to do in an emergency situation. Boat owners should always prepare for the unexpected.

Stay knowledgeable

When operating a boat, the person holding the wheel should be fully aware of all the laws and procedures. This could help out immensely when it comes to navigating through the proper channels and not running aground. It can also help with knowing who has the right of way on a crowded day at sea.

Stay up-to-date on maintenance

The proper functionality on a boat is essential to its overall safety. If boating parts or accessories are starting to wear out, don’t hesitate when it comes to repair. If something fails out on the water, it could quickly turn the water into a dangerous enemy of everyone on the boat. Being a defensive boater means being prepared to defend against the unforgiving waters.

New Hope Marine is ready to help you with any type of boat repair and maintenance. Our team of factory-trained technicians will take care of whatever problems your boat may encounter. New Hope Marine also carries a large surplus of used and new boats for sale at affordable prices.

The Demand for Pontoon Boats is Increasing

Pontoon boats have shed their former stereotypes as the industry is being revolutionized. There are even some pontoon boat manufacturers that cannot keep their product in stock fast enough. The demand has grown so much that pontoon boats have become one of the most sought-after items in the marine industry. This has certainly been the case at local boat dealers such as New Hope Marine.

One of the reasons for this high demand is because of the universal appeal pontoon boats provide. A lot of that has to do with all of the room on a pontoon boat. Avid fishermen have been utilizing pontoon boats because they offer so much room for fishing, which is a tremendous advantage to anglers. Another advantage is the stability a pontoon boat provides fishermen, who are not looking to scare the fish away. Clean up is also easier after a day of fishing on a pontoon boat.

Family outings are also more enjoyable on pontoon boats because of the extra room. The high rails add a nice safety feature for families with children. And the flat hull on a pontoon boat makes it easier to steer right up onto beaches.

For those who are looking just to cruise around on the water, pontoon boats make perfect sense. The stability and size are great for hosting outings in which there is no fishing or watersports involved. A causal party on the water can be accommodated very well by a pontoon boat.

There is also the option of adding a motor that is powerful enough for activities like water skiing or tubing. A traditional power boat is no longer required to enjoy these activities on the water.

There has been a sense of style implemented with the new generation of pontoon boats, which has enhanced their appeal. That boxy, mundane, old image of a pontoon boat is all but a thing of the past. The designs have become so sleek that pontoon boats are now appealing to the younger generation as well.

All of the sudden, pontoon boats are trendy and hip. Many newer models even have luxury features that can make many people question whether or not these vessels are actually pontoon boats.

New Hope Marine carries a long line of pontoon boats including Bennington boats for sale Charlotte NC. There is something in stock for every boat enthusiast as New Hope Marine also offers parts and accessories for sale along with boat repair and maintenance. Stop by New Hope Marine for all your boating needs!

How to Buy a Used Boat

Buying a used boat can be a very rewarding experience, although it does not come without its share of due diligence. It makes sense to shop around when looking at used boats for sale near Charlotte NC, but it also helps to follow some key steps along the way.

Establish what kind of boat you want

How you will use the boat plays a major role in deciding on which model to buy. That means you should narrow down your choices in terms of the activities you will be carrying out on your boat. Consider whether your boat will be used primarily for fishing, cruising or watersports, or entertaining.

Inspect the boat

Remember that buying a used boat comes with a cheaper price tag, but it also means there could be some wear and tear. Make sure to ask about the boat’s repair history along with any documentation of repairs. You can even hire a surveyor to come out and inspect the boat for you. Make sure you are aware of the potential cost for repair or replacement of older boating parts Charlotte North Carolina.

Do some research

It does not hurt to know the market. In order to attain a firm grasp of the boating industry, purchase some boat magazines, attend a local boat show, and familiarize yourself with the key terms and concepts involved in boating.

Consider resale value

When you have zeroed in on some boats that have caught your eye, take the time to compare their asking prices. Then, consider what the value of your boat will be in a few years as that is generally the minimum time it takes boat owners to sell their boats.

Make an offer

Every purchase of a used item is always up for negotiation. When boats are not new, you don’t have to pay the asking price. There is usually some wiggle room, so it won’t hurt to throw out an early offer or two and then let the negotiating begin.

Insure the boat

Insuring a boat is something that is often overlooked by owners. However, an investment of this kind should be protected right away. There are a vast amount of insurance options to choose from, most of which will fall well shy of one thousand dollars per year.

For a vast variety of used boats and new boats for sale, visit New Hope Marine in Charlotte North Carolina or NewHopeMarine.com. Boat enthusiasts can also turn to New Hope Marine for all their boat repair and maintenance. New Hope Marine is your one-stop shop for new and used boats for sale, along with a whole lot more.

Boating Safety Tips

No boater ever intends to run into problems out on the water, although there are a variety of issues that could present themselves without a moment’s warning. That is why New Hope Marine store North Carolina emphasizes the importance of being prepared. Putting together the following list of boating safety equipment is a must for any boat owner.

Distress Signals

Every boater should make sure all the necessary distress signals on board are functional. This includes working flares, which are seen better at night while orange smoke is a better distress signal for daylight hours. In the event that you get caught in a fog, distress signals that make noise come in particularly handy. Make sure a working air horn or loud bell is on board.

Mount Fire Extinguisher

It is one thing to have a fire extinguisher on board, but you need to be able to locate it quickly in an emergency situation. It helps to mount your fire extinguisher in a location that is easily accessible. Should a fire extinguisher be needed, you want to be able to access it with ease.

Check Life Jackets

Whether it be two people on a boat or ten on a large pontoon boat, you should have a life jacket for every person on board. Furthermore, each life jacket should be buoyant enough to keep people afloat. Life jackets that sit around for years can lose their effectiveness. Also, make sure to regularly check the straps and buckles on all those life jackets.

Radio In

Not all cell phones work away from land, so there is also a chance you will need to communicate by some other means out on the water. A boat that is equipped with a VHF radio is going to be able to call for help if needed. If something goes awry when you are out to sea or on a vast lake, there is an immediate means to call for help.

Stock Emergency Kit

A first-aid kit can come in very handy, but only if it is stocked properly. Make sure your first-aid kit is up to par and it also helps to have a working flashlight on board. Your emergency kit should include some backup batteries for your flashlight in case you run into trouble in the dark.

When it comes time to buy a boat or request some type of boat repair and maintenance, New Hope Marine is your one and only choice. Also offering new and used boats for sale in NC, they have something for every boat enthusiast, including pontoon boats and more.

The New Era of Pontoon Boats

The days of the boring old pontoon boat are a thing of the past. No longer are pontoon boats just a pair of long aluminum tubes connected with a deck. Style, power and luxury have all become part of the new and improved brand of pontoon boats for sale. Here’s a closer look at what functions the new era of pontoon boats can serve.

Water Sports

The traditional hull that was part of speed boats has now made its way into pontoon boats. That makes it easier to steer and capable of going much faster. Both of those are very important when it comes to waterskiing or tubing. Pontoon boats now have the option of using motors with higher horsepower, which means they can move just as fast as most other types of boats.

Fishing

Pontoon boats are made with a shallow draft that allows boaters to move into shallow fishing areas that might not be accessible with a power boat. There is also a good deal of stability that will keep a pontoon boat secure in wakes, winds and strong currents. That stability could help immensely with productive fishing. The pontoon’s large deck also leaves plenty of room for passengers to fish. It also serves as a stable setting in which children can learn to fish.

Luxury

Pontoon boats have upgraded to luxury models with sleek, comfortable seating options. There is also plenty of storage space to accommodate an all-day outing. Some models are even equipped with their own high-end grills. Entertaining out on the water is taken to a whole new level with the amount of luxury options available on pontoon boats. The add-on features are seemingly endless.

Cruising

One of the main reasons that pontoon boats have recently developed such a widespread appeal is because of how well they handle. Tight turns are much easier and some models rise to plane in a matter of seconds. Taking out some friends for a day of fun does not have to resort to putting along at slow speeds. The modern pontoon boat handles well at all different speeds.

New Hope Marine in Charlotte NC offers a wide selection of pontoon boats for sale made by Bennington Boats. Our service also includes boat repair and maintenance for your pontoon boat or power boat. Check out our new and used boats for sale as New Hope Marine offers excellent boats at affordable prices.

Problems Boaters Are Having With Ethanol Fuels

Boaters now need to be wary of the fuel they purchase and put into their boats. A lot of fuel now contains a certain percentage of ethanol, which can cause boaters a variety of issues. New Hope Marine of Charlotte NC shares some of the problems boaters are having with ethanol fuels and why they have become such an issue.

There are a number of reasons why ethanol is bad for boaters, the first of which is due to the fact that ethanol absorbs moisture. The result of that is an increased amount of water which steadily accumulates inside a fuel tank. This is a major problem, considering that any sign of water in a gas-powered engine is an issue.


One way to circumvent this problem is to add a fuel separator to your gas line. This will act as a filter which keeps water from making its way into your engine. However, a fuel separator would not be necessary if gas did not contain any traces of ethanol. A lot of gasoline now contains as much as 10% and even 15% ethanol.


When an outboard motor starts to accumulate ethanol, it can lead to a host of different problems. Those problems could lead to expensive repairs and here are some examples of what could go wrong:

• Clogged fuel filters
• Broken fuel line
• Fuel leaks
• Failed carburetor
• Broken valves

Part of the reason ethanol does such damage is because it can actually destroy the resin in fiberglass gas tanks. This issue not only calls for a tank replacement, but it can also destroy other components, such as the injectors and carburetors.


Other issues with ethanol fuel is that it will not perform as well out on the open water. Performance problems in outboard and inboard motors could show up in numerous ways, including rough operating and stalling when trying to plane. It could also present difficulties starting and restarting.


Gas stations on the side of the road sell fuel that has some percentage of ethanol, so a good tip for boaters is to fill up at a pump they know is ethanol free. It may cost a little more, but will save on what could be costly repairs in the long run.


When any kind of problem affects your inboard or outboard motor, contact New Hope Marine. Our team of technicians specializes in boat repair and maintenance while also offering new and used boats for sale at affordable prices.

Why You Should Insure Your Pontoon Boat

You never know when a problem is going to arise with your pontoon boat, but there is peace of mind knowing that you are protected from any unexpected damages. Boat insurance is becoming more and more popular. New Hope Marine Charlotte NC highly recommends purchasing insurance alongside your boat.

Boat insurance is an important part of owning a boat and prices may differ according to your location and past driving record. However, there are two types of insurance boaters can choose from. Liability is the cheapest insurance option, which covers the cost of damages to other boats and passengers. This generally costs about $100 per year. Comprehensive coverage protects is a little more detailed as it protects owners from property damage, medical bills and injuries up to a certain dollar amount. Annual costs for this generally range from $300-$400.


These figures may seem like a small price to pay, but the expense of owning a boat causes some owners to forgo buying insurance. Pontoon boats are now made to do a lot more out on the water, which also means there is a lot more that could go wrong. Here are some other reasons why it is a good idea to purchase insurance for your pontoon boat:

• Injuries – Turning a pontoon boat is not exactly the same as it is turning in a traditional power boat. Making too abrupt of a turn at a high speed could send passengers to the floor or even overboard. This makes everyone on board susceptible to injuries.

• Theft – Boats are not equipped with the sophisticated alarm systems found in cars. Someone could walk up, hook your boat up to their hitch and drive off. The ease of this kind of theft makes boat insurance seem like it should be a given. 

• Entertaining – A lot of pontoon boat owners like to entertain on while out on the water. In many instances, there is a good amount of drinking involved, making accidents even more likely to happen. Boat insurance will protect you from an unwanted lawsuit should a passenger have some type of unpleasant experience. 

State laws – Many states make it mandatory to have some form of liability insurance for your boat. Being fined for no insurance is another bill that you do not need.

New Hope Marine provides a wide selection of pontoon boats for sale. Our selection is stocked with a variety of Bennington Boats at reasonable prices. New Hope Marine also offers boat repair and maintenance along with a complete line of used pontoon boats for sale Charlotte NC.

Getting to Know the Electronic Functions on Your Boat

While a motor powers your boat, the electrical system powers everything else. That is why it is smart for boat owners to know exactly how their boat’s electrical system functions. Newer boats, equipped with outboard motors, have a complex electrical systems and it is important for owners to know how it functions and distributes power throughout the boat. Here’s a closer look at the major components that rely on your boat’s electrical system.

Batteries

Outboard motors are equipped with two types of batteries, cranking and storage. The purpose of the cranking battery is to start the motor. Once the motor starts, the alternator keeps the motor running. The storage battery powers everything else on your boat, such as the bilge pumps, radios, power steering, bow thruster and more.

Battery switches are located on boats that have more than one outboard motor. These are used to control all the boat batteries. Another useful device for your boat’s electrical system is a smart charger. The function of a smart charger is to charge batteries on an as-needed basis. So, if one of your batteries starts to get low, the smart charger will recognize it and send a charge. For more information about smart chargers, contact us at NewHopeMarine.com.

Circuit Breakers and Fuses

A circuit breaker functions just like it would in your home. Should you experience a power surge, the circuit breakers act as a defense mechanism to your boat’s electrical system. Circuit breakers are located in different places, but it is important to know their exact location. In the event of a power outage, you should be able to go right to the circuit breaker and restore power.

Fuses control the boat’s electronic devices that are not connected to individual circuit breakers. Most boats are equipped with a fuse panel which connects to various devices with power cables. It is a good idea to identify what kind of fuses are on your boat and then make it a point to stock up on replacement fuses. Navigational systems are often powered by these fuses, which makes stocking up on replacement fuses of vital importance.

New Hope Marine has everything you need to keep your boat’s electrical system in peak running condition. Also staffing a team of trained and certified technicians, New Hope Marine provides service on all types of motors. And if you are looking to purchase a new motor, parts and accessories, or looking for a new boat for sale in Charlotte, New Hope Marine is your one-stop shop in North Carolina.

How to Choose the Right Cover For Your Boat

The elements of nature can do a lot of damage to boats, especially to ones that are not fitted with the right cover. That is why it is extremely important to protect your boat from harsh weather with the right kind of cover. Here are some tips from NewHopeMarine.com to consider when choosing a boat cover.

It’s simple to say that you should cover your boat when it is not in use. However, not any old cover or tarp will do. It’s best to find the cover that is recommended for your exact make and model of boat. There are also custom covers available for purchase, which come in snap-down or tie-down varieties. 

The important thing to remember is to buy a cover that fits your exact boat. Size is very important as you need a cover that fits the exact dimensions of your boat. The way to find the length of the centerline of your boat is by measuring the very tip of the bow all the way back to the middle of the stern. Also, be sure to account for any extensions you may have on your boat. Measuring the beam width of your leisure boat is done by calculating the measurements of your boat at its widest point. 

Lake Lure, North Carolina

Once you have the right dimensions, the next step is choosing a fabric. There is a wide variety to choose from, including cotton, acrylic, polyester and more. The choice of fabric should be based upon the conditions your boat will have to stand up to. 

If you are storing your boat in an area where there is a lot of sunlight, look for a cover that has protection from UV rays. Should you store your boat in an area that has a lot of humidity, choose a fabric that guards against a buildup of mildew. In the event that a good amount of snow and rain will fall where you store your boat, choose a fabric that is durable. 

Keep in mind that there are plenty of accessories for boat covers as well. And it is always important to do some upkeep on your cover. It’s a good idea to pad the windshield before putting on your boat cover. And it is always recommended to dry your boat cover before putting it away. 

If you are looking for new or used boats for sale or are in need of any kind of boat part or accessory, visit New Hope Marine. With a large surplus of everything an avid boat enthusiast would need, New Hope Marine makes shopping easy with quality items at affordable prices. 

Tips on Buying a Pre-Owned Boat

Buying a brand new boat is not an affordable option for every boating enthusiast. That’s okay because there are plenty of excellent pre-owned boats on the market. Here’s a look at some helpful tips when it comes to buying a pre owned boat for sale Charlotte.

The Motor

Without a motor, a boat is rendered useless, so it is important to check out the motor before you buy. Examine the motor and check for any welds or areas that have been painted over. Those are signs that the motor had been worked on. Also, be sure to check the power head to see how clean it is.

The oil is another telling sign. Run the engine for a bit and then drain some of the oil. If it is a clear or gold color, then it is in good working condition. Black oil is a sign that the oil needs to be changed and if there is a coffee or cream color, there is likely a major problem. These are problems you will never experience when buying a boat from a reputable dealer such as New Hope Marine in Charlotte.

The Body

A pre-owned boat will have some kind of wear, although keep an eye out for any problems with the hull, such as stress cracks. One or two small stress cracks probably is not much to worry about. But if there are a bunch, then it is not a good sign.

Getting a good look underneath a boat is recommended as well. This is easier to do with boats that are out of the water. Look for any gouges on the bottom of the boat. If there is any fiberglass protruding, it is a sign that there has been work done to the bottom. That is a good sign to stay away. Feel for any soft spots on the deck and also be sure to check for cracks in the transom.

The Trailer

The trailer is an important component and should not be neglected. There is a lot to inspect on a trailer and that can start with all of its lights. Next, move on to the springs and the axles. Check both for signs of rust. The winch should also be examined and be sure that it operates properly.

The brakes are another important area and since the trailer will be used on the road, it should meet all state requirements. It’s also a good idea to check the condition of the tires and their pressure levels.

If you are in the market for a pre-owned boat, check out the vast selection at New Hope Marine. Also carrying an inventory of new boats for sale Charlotte along with all kinds of parts, New Hope Marine has everything you need to keep your boat running right.

How to Make Your Boat More Fuel Efficient

Boat owners have to contend with a lot of maintenance, which could wind up being costly. It’s always an advantage when boaters can save money and to help with that, here are some tips from NewHopeMarine.com to manage your boating fuel budget.

Buy Smart

If your motor calls for 89-octane, don’t buy 91-octane. It will cost more and you will see no difference in performance. It is also a good idea to stay away from filling up at a fuel dock if you are trailering your pontoon boat. Those prices are a lot higher than prices at your local gas station. Remember to fill up before you hit the water.

Keep the Bottom Clean

Over time, a lot can grow underneath your boat. As this growth of algae and other stuff accumulates, it creates more drag. If you trailer your boat, make it a habit of cleaning the bottom. And if you keep your boat in the water, there are services which specialize in cleaning the bottom.

Find the Right Cruising Speed

Going too fast will definitely hurt your fuel efficiency. When cruising, try to bring your pontoon boat up on a plane and keep it there. Decreasing your cruising speed by just a couple of knots could wind up saving you as much as 30% on the consumption of fuel.

Keep Calm

Motoring through choppy waters takes up a lot more fuel. If you have a choice of when to hit the open water, try choosing a day when it is calm. Not having to deal with rough waters will save you money at the gas pump.

Boat Smart

Keep your prop free of any gouges and make sure you have the right size, which includes diameter and blade area. And when cruising, remove the canvas from your panels to create less windage. You can also try removing the boat top altogether if that is an option.

Lessen Your Load

Simple mathematics tells you that the less your boat weighs, the less fuel it will use. Avoid any excess weight throughout your boat as routine checks can lessen your load. You can also drain your live-wells when heading back home as there is quite a few pounds of water stored up in there.

New Hope Marine provides everything the modern boater needs. With a complete service center, large supply of boat parts, and boats for sale in Charlotte. New Hope Marine is your one-stop shop for everything that is boating.

Maintaining Your Boat in the Summer

Many boaters are very careful to prepare their boats for winter storage. However, similar areas of concentration should not be ignored during the summer months. Summer boating is great fun, whether its a lazy day on the pontoon boats or a fishing competition. Here is a look at some ways boaters can maintain their boats while they are in the water.

Check Oil

Keep an eye on the oil and don’t ignore it just because you may have recently had it changed. Low oil levels could be a sign that there is a leak. Prior to the summer, the oil, filter and gear lube should all be changed. This is an easy job for your local boating service department. Unlike a car, there is no oil light that comes on to signify that there is a problem.

Light Up

Even if you use your boat primarily in the day, it is a good idea to check the lights. In the event that the lights do not work, you can attempt to clean the socket with sandpaper. And before going out and buying a whole new fixture, you could attempt to replace the sockets, which is a much cheaper fix.

Bottom Inspection

When you are anchored and the engine is turned off, take a dip in the water and inspect the bottom of the boat. Most times, the transom and hull is in need of a scrubbing. Remember that removing any growth from underneath your boat should not remove any of the paint. Be mindful of how forceful you are when cleaning the boat bottom.

Empower Your Steering

Summer heat can take its toll on your boat’s steering. With several different types of steering systems common on boats, it is important to understand how your steering operates. Mechanical rack or rotary systems are prevalent on outboard boats.  Keeping the steering tube on these systems properly lubricated is a must to prevent jamming especially.  Hydraulic steering systems require topping off the hydraulic fluid periodically and checking for leaks.  Over time, the seals in hydraulic systems may develop leaks and must be replaced.  Most stern drive boats will have power steering pumps similar to cars. Check the fluids in these systems periodically and top them off as needed.

Keep a Clean Hull

Keeping a clean hull is key to maintaining a properly functioning boat. A failure to maintain the hull of your boat could lead to burning an excess amount of fuel and poor performance. In our local lakes, algae will accumulate on hulls and pontoons rapidly. Algae adds weight, causes drag and is unsightly. Scrubbing the hull with a soft bristle brush or sponge is an efficient way to remove algae and avoid any summertime problems.

The Carolina's one-stop shop for all your boat sales and boating services is at New Hope Marine. With a wide selection and expert technicians available, New Hope Marine is the only boating choice in the Charlotte, NC area.

Marine Industry Fights EPA’s Push to Authorize E15 Fuels

The EPA’s authorization of E15 fuels, which contain 15% ethanol, means a lot of potential engine problems for boaters. While the EPA has continued to back the use of E15 fuels, the marine industry is not backing down.


The reason for that fight is because ethanol fuel can do a great deal of damage to boat motors causing need for immediate boat repair. The approval of E15 is not only being opposed by boat owners, but by engine manufacturers as well. Boat owners are likely to experience issues with E15 fuels, which could mean costly repairs or even leave them stuck out at sea with no power.


Engine manufacturers also stand to lose a great deal of money due to the fact that they will have to make good on several warranties. They also stand to take a hit in customer service because they may not be able to validate all their warranties. The bottom line is that the use of E15 fuels could create a rift between boaters and engine manufacturers. Boat owners are becoming distraught over non-validated warranties while engine manufacturers are seeing their reputations tarnished.


The use of E15 actually comes down to a matter of dollars and cents. E15 fuel is cheaper, which makes it very alluring at the pump. However, not every boat owner is privy to the specifics of E15 and what it entails. The E15 fuel is basically made for cars equipped with flex-fuel engines, which are more advanced than boat engines. And every seller of E15 is not likely to take the time to post any kind of warning at the pump. Our staff at New Hope Marine Charlotte is ready to answer any additional questions.


The farming industry was the first to fight the approval of E15 and now the boating industry has joined that fight. Marine industry leaders have banded together in an effort to create the “Look Before You Pump” campaign. The campaign urges boaters to pay attention and read the fine print before filling up at any service station. Mercury Marine, an industry leader, has long since joined that fight as E15 fuel continues to be an issue that plagues the entire boating community. Efforts have also come from The National Marine Manufacturers Association.


New Hope Marine offers a multitude of boating solutions. We can attend to whatever type of engine issues you encounter, with factory trained technicians who are well versed in outboard and inboard motor repair. Whether you are looking for boats for sale or boat maintenance and repair, New Hope Marine is the place for you.


Sources
http://opei.org/ethanolwarning/