Boston Whalers are engineered for easy upkeep and long-lasting reliability.
With a little TLC and straight-forward upkeep, you’ll be enjoying your Whaler for decades to come. Learn the best way to take care of your Whaler and its accessories below.
Rinse windscreen thoroughly with clear water to remove any dust, dirt particles, salt water or environmental agents before applying cleaning products.
Use your bare hand, with plenty of water, to feel and dislodge any stuck – on dirt or foreign particles.
This should be done frequently to avoid build-up of salt water, dirt and other environmental contaminants.
Using a soft non-abrasive cloth, wash windows inside and out with mild soap (Woolite, Joy, Palmolive, etc.) and water solution. Rinse completely with cool water.
DO NOT USE DETERGENTS
Blot dry with a soft cloth or chamois to prevent water spots.
The use of a polycarbonate protective cleaner/restorer is recommended to keep your acrylic scratch resistant, clean and minimize the deteriorating effects of sunlight.
NOTICE:
Never use a dry cloth or duster or glass cleaning solutions on acrylic.
DO NOT use solvents such as acetones, silicone spray, benzene, carbon tetrachloride, fire extinguisher fluid, dry cleaning fluid, lacquer thinner, glass cleaning solutions containing ammonia, or harsh detergents on acrylic.
The above substances will attack the surfaces of the acrylic.
Wash down completely with soap and fresh water and wipe dry after each use.
Wash completely using a soft cloth and mild detergent to remove salt particles. Hosing alone will not dislodge all particles. DO NOT allow soap to dry as it may cause stains on coated surface. Make sure to wash and dry full circumferences of bows (bimini and suntops).
Wash and apply an aluminum protectorant twice each year. Inspect and repair or replace all damaged nylon bushings, washers or other hardware deigned to prevent contact with dissimilar metals.
Whenever electrical or electronic changes are made to the boat, a qualified marine technician should check aluminum parts for stray currents. Make sure all electronic equipment is properly grounded with adequate sized wire.
Preventive maintenance is essential to life of the metals on your boat. The presence of salt particles and moisture is the major cause of white spots, pitting and corrosion. The use of harsh chemicals can also cause deterioration. Manufacturers and applicators of protective coatings will not warranty protective coatings on metals in the marine environment. Proper owner maintenance is required to reduce deterioration which will result in most cases by failure to wash down and wipe dry after each use and/or the use of abrasive, acidic or other improper cleaners.
Propellers have two basic characteristics: diameter and pitch. Diameter is the distance in inches measured across the propeller hub line from the outer edge of the 360 that is made by the propeller’s blades during rotation. Pitch is the distance in inches that a propeller will travel if rotated one revolution without any slippage. For example, a propeller with a 12-inch pitch, when rotated 360 would, theoretically, advance 12 inches through the water. No 12-inch pitch blade will, in a single rotation, advance a boat 12 inches. This variance is referred to as slippage. When describing a propeller both the diameter and pitch are given. The diameter is referenced first and the pitch is second. Therefore, a 14″ x 19″ propeller would have a 14-inch diameter and a 19-inch blade pitch.
REFER TO YOUR ENGINE OWNER’S MANUAL FOR EXACT BATTERY REQUIREMENTS.
Use only AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) batteries with Verado engines.
Your batteries should always be enclosed in the battery trays provided with your boat and secured in place by the retaining lids. The trays will ensure that while underway the batteries will not move around, thus causing damage to components fitted in the same area.
Battery Maintenance
Before use, check each battery and the charging system for loose connections or wiring.
Normal maintenance for ALL style batteries should include:
For Lead Acid
The most life shortening experience for the battery is to be drained to zero charge before recharging. When a battery discharges, the active material on both positive and negative plates converts to lead sulfate, causing the plates to become more alike in an electrical charge. The electricity conducting battery acid becomes weaker and the voltage drops, the battery remains discharged, and the process continues until recharging the battery becomes impossible. If the battery does become run down, be sure to recharge it as soon as possible. Over charging the battery can be just as detrimental to its life as running it down too far.
Battery Storage
NOTICE: Remove battery from boat and store in a cool, dry location. Periodically check the battery during storage.
CAUTION! While the engine is running, the battery terminal clamps must not be loosened or detached nor should the battery switch(es) be turned off; otherwise, the alternator and other electronic units will be damaged.
DANGER! Never use an open flame in the battery storage area. Avoid striking sparks near the battery. A battery will explode if a flame or spark ignites the free hydrogen given off during charging.
From time to time, a slight algae or slime forms on all vessels. The bottom painted portion of the hull can be wiped off with a coarse Turkish towel or a piece of old rug while the boat is in the water. Do not use a stiff or abrasive material to clean the bottom paint. The bottom paint should be inspected annually. If it needs repainting, flush the old paint and wash with hot water and laundry detergent. Rinse well and let surface dry completely. Feather any deep scratches with sandpaper and repaint, following the directions on the bottom paint label. Replacement coating can be ordered from your Boston Whaler dealer. Fiberglass hulls should never be hauled, painted and relaunched the same day, since this does not allow sufficient time for the moisture which has been absorbed into the old paint film to completely dry out. Generally, 24 to 36 hours of drying time is required.
Brush the canvas with a soft-bristled brush and hose down at regular intervals to remove dust and dirt particles. It may be washed in a mild solution of Lux, Ivory Flakes, or Borateem in lukewarm water (no more than 100 F). Rinse thoroughly to remove soap. Do not use detergents. For more stubborn cases, soak the canvas in a solution of 1/2 cup (4 oz.) Clorox 1/2 cup (4 oz.) Ivory Flakes and one gallon warm water for about 20 minutes. Rinse with cold water to remove all soap. NOTE: This method may remove part of the water repellence, so apply a water repellent treatment as necessary. The canvas may also be washed in an automatic washer on the “cold” cycle using 2 cups (16 oz.) Clorox and 1 cup (8 oz.) Ivory Flakes. DO NOT DRY IN A DRYER – ALLOW CANVAS TO LINE DRY ONLY. The fabric is 100% acrylic and it will shrink. Canvas may be dry cleaned, but a water repellent treatment will be necessary.
Do not fold or crease any of the clear vinyl panels, as cracking will result. Do not fold or store any canvas while wet. All canvas should be rolled or folded when dry and stored in a clean, dry area.
Electrolysis corrosion of underwater metals on power boats can result in serious deterioration. The boat owner must be aware of the possibilities of galvanic action (the deterioration of underwater metals due to dissimilar characteristics when placed in salt water) and/or electrolysis. It is the owner’s responsibility to check for and replace damaged parts due to galvanic deterioration. Refer to your Boston Whaler dealer to investigate the source of stray corrosive currents. Inboard/outboard and outboard engines are fitted with zinc anodes on their lower units (refer to the engine operator’s manual for their locations). If your boat is equipped with trim planes (tabs), zinc plates are installed on the trim planes (tabs). Zinc protects underwater hardware. Zinc, being much less “noble” than copper-based alloys and aluminum used in Boston Whaler underwater fittings, will deteriorate first and protect the more noble parts. Zinc anodes generally require replacement about once a year. In salt water areas, replace every six months. The need to replace anodes more frequently may indicate a stray-current problem within the boat or at the slip or mooring. If zinc anodes do not need replacing after one year, they may not be providing proper protection. Loose anodes or low-grade zinc may be the problem. NOTICE: Do not paint between the zinc and metal it contacts and do not paint over the zinc.
Molded fiberglass with a gel coated exterior finish makes up the structure of the hull, deck and some interior parts of your Boston Whaler. The Gel Coat is the outer surface, often colored, that presents the shiny, smooth appearance which is associated with fiberglass products. In some areas, this Gel Coat surface is painted or taped for styling purposes. Wash the fiberglass regularly with clean, fresh water. Wax Gel Coated surfaces to maintain the luster. In northern climates, a semiannual waxing may suffice for the season. In southern climates, a quarterly application of wax will be required for adequate protection.
WARNING!: Gel Coat surfaces are slippery when wet. Use extreme care when walking on wet Gel Coat.
Recommended waxes are: 3M Imperial Hand Glaze #05990 or Meguiars #26 Hiteck Yellow Wax. If the Gel Coated surface gloss cannot be restored by waxing, power buff with a rubbing compound such as 3M Super Duty #05955, followed with 3M Finesse-It 2 #05928, then wax.
WARNING!: Care should be utilized in waxing commonly walked-upon areas of the boat to ensure that they are not dangerously slippery. An alternate method is to use Meguiars #44 Heavy Duty Color Restorer followed with Meguiars #50 Boat Cleaner/Polish, then wax. Recommended waxes are: 3M Imperial Hand Glaze #05990 or Meguiars #26 Hiteck Yellow Wax. If Gel Coat is not maintained and becomes heavily oxidized, light sanding may be required before buffing.
“Note: Do not use abrasive cleaners such as Soft Scrub in surfaces with gel coat.”
Gel Coat and painted surfaces are very resistant to deep stains. Common surface stains can be removed with diluted household detergents, providing these detergents do not contain ammonia or chlorine. Porcelain-cleaning powders are too abrasive and often contain chlorine and ammonia, either of which would permanently discolor the Gel Coat and paint. Alcohol or kerosene can be used for difficult stains but should be washed away promptly with a mild detergent and water. Never use acetone or ketone solvents. Minor scratches and deeper stains which do not penetrate the Gel Coat may be removed by light sanding and buffing.
“Note: Do not use abrasive cleaners such as Soft Scrub in surfaces with gel coat.”
If permanently moored in salt water or fresh water, your boat will collect marine growth on its bottom. This will detract from the boat’s beauty and greatly affect its performance.
There are two methods of preventing this:
NOTE: There are EPA regulations regarding bottom paint application. Consult your Boston Whaler dealer for proper application methods.
“Note: Do not use abrasive cleaners such as Soft Scrub in surfaces with gel coat.”
When preparing to store a boat for extended periods of two months or more, it is best to make sure that the boat and its systems are properly conditioned for such extended periods of non-usage. The guidelines presented below give basic instructions on “winterizing” your boat and boat systems. If inexperienced with the process of winterization, it is best to hire the services of a professional.
In addition, always consult the owner’s manuals of the various systems and equipment on your boat for the manufacturer’s recommendations on winterizing and long term storage.
Engine
Protecting your engine’s vital moving parts from corrosion and rust caused by freezing of trapped water or excessive condensation due to climatic changes is very important. Freezing water in the engine can cause extensive damage to the internal moving parts. Internal engine parts can also be affected by rust due to lack of proper lubrication. Replace the engine oil and filter, running the engine to drain out as much old oil as possible.
In addition, it is important that you follow all the recommendations set by the engine manufacturer’s operation manual.
Fuel System
Tank(s), hoses, and fuel pumps should be treated to help prevent the formation of varnish and gum. Temperature extremes will cause condensation to accumulate in an empty or partially filled fuel tank leading to fuel contamination and/or premature wear of your system. Fill the tank 95% full to allow for expansion, and add fuel stabilizer and conditioner, following the manufacturer’s recommendations, to provide fuel stability and corrosion protection.
Battery
Livewell/Raw Water System
Fresh Water System
If the water system will not be used for an extended amount of time, it is recommended that it be drained.
Winterizing the Mister System
If the system will not be in use, remove all the heads from the mister nozzles, clean them with CLR and store them. Do not replace them on the nozzles. Completely drain all water out of the system. Remove the mister lines from the pump. If the in-line filter will be usable when the mister system is put back into service, remove it from the system and store it in an area that will not freeze.
After Long Term Storage
Before you fill the freshwater system, it is vital that it be properly disinfected. The following procedure is recommended to disinfect the freshwater system:
Head System
Air Handling System
Follow manufacturer’s recommendations for winterization/long term storage. The manufacturer’s owner’s manual can be found in your owner’s manual packet.
Sump
Electrical System
Deck
Clean the deck with soap, hot water and a stiff brush to clean up any oil spills.
Drainage
It is important to raise the bow of the boat enough to allow for proper drainage of water from the deck and bilge area. Make sure all the drainage fittings are clear and free of debris. Store the engine in an upright position to promote adequate drainage of water. Ensure that ALL drain plugs are removed (i.e. fishboxes, garboard drain, livewells, etc.)
Cover
When covering your boat, it is best to use a frame of either aluminum or wood to keep the cover up. This allows air to circulate and discourages water from pooling on the cover. Vents along the entire length of the cover will allow condensation to escape. Placing a series of foam pads between the hull and cover will also aid in air circulation and reduce condensation. To help keep your boat dry and mildew free, consider placing commercial odor and moisture absorbing products in the boat under the cover.
Environment
Antifreeze and other winterizing fluids can be toxic to aquatic life and cause harmful effects to plant life. Improper disposal or spillage of antifreeze and/or any winterization fluids can cause environmental problems when allowed to empty into waterways or on the ground. Furthermore, it is illegal, punishable at minimum by fines. Used antifreeze or any winterization fluids, should not be disposed of into sanitary sewers or publicly owned treatment plants. Persons who have any questions regarding recycling antifreeze or other toxic fluids should write or call their state’s EPA office.
MIRAGE Hardwood Floor
The hardwood floor in the cabin can be kept clean and in good condition with routine cleaning.
DO NOT:
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT THE TECHINICAL SERVICE DEPARTMENT AT 1-800-463-1303.
To protect your deck and non-skid areas from the deteriorating affects of the sun, oxidation, water spots and pollution, use a good quality “fiberglass and non-skid deck” wax every two to three months.
When applied to your deck and non-skid areas, as recommended by the manufacturer, the wax forms a protective non-slick surface which will keep debris from sticking. Dirt, soot, bird droppings, and even fish blood will rinse right off.
NOTICE:
How to maintain, care for and repair your DuPont Imron Marine Finish:
DuPont Imron polyurethane enamels provide superior protection against elements that your boat will face throughout its long life. To make sure that you maximize the benefits of DuPont Imron, use the following guide to take care of your finish.
Boston Whaler Parts and Accessories are available only through a Boston Whaler dealer. When contacting a Boston Whaler dealer regarding replacement parts, accessories, or service, please have all pertinent information such as serial numbers, model numbers, etc. on hand. Boston Whaler Boats, Inc. has a permanent record of your boat, which is retained under its “Hull Identification Number.” Data is kept regarding equipment and accessories, as well as dealer/shipping information. The “Hull Identification Number” (HIN), located on the starboard side of the transom, is the most important identifying factor and must be included in all correspondence and orders. Failure to include this information may cause shipment or service delays.
Cavitation is a phenomenon that occurs in all propeller-driven craft under certain conditions. The surface of propeller blades is not perfectly flat, and as water is drawn through the blades to be discharged aft into the propeller’s slip stream, the water flowing over the curved surface of the blade encounters areas of greater and less pressure. In those areas of reduced pressure, air bubbles are formed. When they move out of the low pressure area, these bubbles collapse. If they collapse while in contact with an object, such as part of the propeller blade or a trim plane, the bubbles create such highly localized forces that they erode the surface of the object. In the case of the propeller, such damage is sometimes called a “burn.” It may be caused by an irregularity in the propeller’s leading edge, and should be corrected by reconditioning the propeller or by replacement. Cavitation is a normal occurrence in modern boats and propeller inspection should be a part of routine maintenance.
Propellers should be free of nicks, excessive pitting and any distortions that alter propellers from their original design. A badly damaged propeller should be replaced, but those that are chipped, bent or merely knocked out of shape can be reconditioned by your marine dealer. When doing extensive cruising, it is advisable to carry an extra propeller aboard. Operating your boat with a damaged propeller will reduce its top speed, may introduce undesirable handling characteristics and will definitely increase fuel consumption. A damaged propeller may also create unpleasant vibrations leading to an increased sound level. These excessive vibrations will hasten wear to rotating and reciprocating engine components and may cause costly damage.
Some of the more powerful motors create a considerable torque effect; that is, a twisting motion causing the boat to ride with one sheer lower than the other. This twisting reaction is caused by the direction of propeller rotation lifting one side of the boat. This causes uneven drag, so that the boat’s bow may tend to fall off in one direction or the other from the intended course given by the wheel. Outboard lower units are equipped with an adjustable trim tab which may be adjusted to balance “steering torque” so that the steering wheel will turn with equal ease in each direction. Follow the trim plane adjustment instructions in the Engine Owner’s Manual. Torque action may occur when maximum or close-to-maximum rated horsepower is applied. Any slight torque may be offset by shifting passenger or gear weight laterally to the high side of the boat.
While often called “cavitation,” ventilation is really a different effect. At times when a boat enters or leaves a sharp turn, the propeller seems to slip and lose thrust and the engine may overspeed. This problem is normally caused by air or aerated water entering the propeller. A damaged propeller can also cause ventilation. Ventilation can usually be corrected by one or more of the following:
Your Boston Whaler is equipped with propellers which our tests have shown to be the best suited for general use under normal conditions and load. In some situations, you may wish to change propellers to give your boat slightly different performance characteristics. In general, changing to a lower pitch propeller will increase acceleration and load-pulling ability, but with a slight decrease in top speed. Conversely, moving to a higher pitch propeller will attain higher top speed with a light load, but will sacrifice acceleration and power. Your particular requirements should be discussed with your Boston Whaler dealer.
UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD YOU USE A PROPELLER WHICH ALLOWS THE ENGINE TO OPERATE AT A HIGHER THAN RECOMMENDED RPM.
Karadon Solid Surface Countertops
When properly cared for, your solid surface countertops will last a lifetime. Routine cleaning with a damp cloth and one of the following cleaners will keep your countertop looking as good as the day it was installed.
DO NOT:
When cooking, ensure that utensils do not overhang the stove and reflect heat to the countertop. Always use a hot pad or trivet when placing hot items on the countertop. In the event that your countertop is damaged by burns, impact marks or scratches, repairs should be made by a trained solid surface fabricator.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT KARADON CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-KARADON.
Your metal trim and fittings will stay bright if coated with a good grade metal polish or paste wax after washing. Stainless steel is strong and corrosion resistant, but still requires maintenance to keep its appearance. Frequent routine cleaning of your stainless steel with mild soap water and cleaning wax will help maintain the finish.
DO NOT USE:
Crevice corrosion, a brownish coloring, occurs where two pieces of stainless hardware meet. This condition is caused by impurities in water and air and can be easily cleaned with a good grade marine polish using a sponge, cloth or small bristled brush (for nooks and crannies).
TEAK Cabin Steps
The cabin steps in your boat are constructed with natural teak which requires virtually no maintenance beyond a frequent wash down with water.
Teak expands when wet and shrinks when dry. If allowed to dry completely, the caulking (black stripes) between the planks will expand as the teak dries, putting the mating surfaces under stress.
A salt water washdown is best because as it dries, it leaves a fine salt deposit which will absorb moisture out of the air and help to keep the wood from drying out. It also reduces mildew and algae growth. If salt water is not readily available, fresh water is better than none.
Let the sun bleach the teak to a grayish white surface – that is how it is supposed to look! However, if on a rare occasion you would like a honey colored look for a few days, apply a small amount of oil to bring out the color. DO NOT SAND! Teak that has been exposed to the sunlight for 10 years without any maintenance has beautiful oily wood 1/100th of an inch below the surface. A small amount of oil to bring it out will do no harm.
You may trailer your boat with either cockpit cover or tonneau cover installed; however, the mooring cover must be installed over the boat with tie-down straps secure. The convertible top, side curtains and camper aft cover must be removed when trailering. Damage will occur to the canvas, bow, or boat if attached to the boat while trailering.
Exterior fabrics should be cleaned with a sponge or very soft scrub-brush and a mild soap and warm water solution. Rinse after scrubbing with plenty of cold, clean water and allow the fabric to air dry in a well-ventilated area, preferably away from direct sunlight.
Mildew can occur if your boat does not have adequate ventilation.
Heat alone will not prevent mildew; you must also provide fresh air circulation.
Cleaning recommendations for G&Te Marine Fabrics:
Always clean immediately.
Test an unseen area of fabric before cleaning stain.
See the following chart for cleaning recommendations:
A. White cloth – Westley’s® Clear Magic.
B. White cloth – Westley’s® Clear Magic – air hose.
C. Lendow® Glass Cleaner.
D. Lift Off® Spot Remover.
E. Clothes shaver to remove lint.
F. Follow instructions of staining agent manufacturer.
Type of Stain and Steps to Use:
Adhesive | D | ||
Ballpoint Ink | A | ||
Chewing Gum | D | ||
Chocolate | A | ||
Coffee, Tea | A | ||
Crayon | A | D | |
Grease | A | ||
Household Soil | A | ||
Ketchup | A | ||
Latex Paint | A | D | F |
Lipstick | A | ||
Mildew | A | E | |
Motor Oil | A | ||
Oil Base Paint | A | D | F |
Permanent Marker* | A | F | |
Spray Paint | A | D | F |
Suntan Lotion* | A | F | |
Tar | A | D | |
Teak Oil | D | ||
Water Stain | B | C | E |
Wet Leaves* | A | ||
Yellow Mustard | A | D |