Important Boating Systems to Know

When purchasing a new boat, it’s important that you get to know how it works. This means learning some of the systems involved in the boat. Below, we will go over some of these important systems to learn.

Fuel System

One of the more important systems, especially if you’re hoping to avoid getting stranded out in open water, is the fuel system. Knowing the fuel system can help you fix on the spot issues to avoid the above possibilities. You should make an effort to trace out the system, so you know the various parts and their locations off hand. This will make finding and fixing any issues much easier. Fuel line fittings, fuel tank fill hose, fuel filters and fuel shut-off valves are all parts you should know on-site. Having spare filters and knowing how to bleed your diesel after filter changes are good ideas as well. 

Freshwater System

The freshwater system is the part of the boat that transports fresh water to futures, faucets and such. Parts of this system include the water tank, water heater, pressure pump and various pipes and lines. A good way to learn this, and other systems, is to draw them out onto paper, so you have a rough idea of what is where on your boat. It’s important to go over each system slowly, so you don’t miss anything.

Electrical Systems

The more you know about a boats DC electrical system, the better, and safer, you’ll be. It’s a good idea to know the main components of the boat’s electrical system and how they interact with one another. You should know where the on/off switches are, where the batteries are, and the breakers and fuses as well. Having spare fuses on hand is a must, and knowing where they are more-so. As for tools you want to have on hand, a multimeter is perhaps one of the most important tools you can have. It will help you track down broken wires, blown fuses and test voltages. Other good things to have on hand are jumper cables, electrical tape, WD-40 as well as spare wire.

Sanitation System

This one is a no brainer. There are few things more unpleasant to have to deal with than a broken toilet on open water. Knowing where the parts are can help resolve any “issues” quickly and with a minimum of fuss. There are a number of different types of toilet system, such as gravity toilets, which function like a Porta Potti with waste being deposited directly into a holding receptacle. An integral system is more complex, and thus has more areas of possible failure. Knowing where the water intake, holding tank, dock side pump-out deck fitting and of course, pipes, will be a huge help in fixing any issues that arrive. Having replacement kits, gaskets and seals will let you correct any issues quickly.

Palm Harbor Marina is a world class marina located in South Florida. We welcome the international yachting community with our superior facilities, exceptional hospitality and slips of up to 250 ft. Please contact us with any questions!