FAQ on boat operation & maintenance | Evolution Marine

Learn about boating with FAQ answers from Evolution Marine.

Since 2012 we have provided expert advice on all aspects of boating including boat operation, boat service and repair, boat electrical, marine & boating electronics, boat insurance repairs and pre‑purchase boat inspections.

Here we share our knowledge and professional experience on boat operation, boat maintenance and repairs.

We welcome suggestions for inclusion in our FAQ page. Please email your questions.

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I am new to boating. Where do I start?

The Victorian Recreational Boating Safety Handbook contains guidance and safety information for all recreational boaters, including sailors, kayakers, canoeists, rowers, wakeboarders, water skiers, and kitesurfers. Topics include essentials for...

• Safe boating
• Safe operation
• Emergency procedures
• Licensing and registration
• Personal watercraft (PWC) / jet skis

Read the Victorian Handbook, or consult your relevant State authority.

What should I check on my boat before going out on the water?

• Check fuel level and only use fresh fuel from a busy petrol station
• Check battery condition and charge
• Check battery is secure and battery terminals are tight
• Always replace the engine cranking battery with a marine battery which has thicker plates and a more robust-design to withstand the vibration and pounding on the water
• On 2-stroke outboard motors check the oil tank level and use the correct oil
• Check the boat drain/bung plugs are fitted and secure
• Inspect all safety equipment and flares
• Check use by date on flares
• Check boat trailer tyres, air pressure, braking and lights

What maintenance is required after being out on the water?

• Run the outboard motor or inboard engine at idle speed for at least 10 minutes with fresh water going through to flush saltwater
• Remove boat drain/bung plugs to drain water from the hull
• Wash the boat to reduce the effects of salt corrosion
• Wash the boat trailer
• Wash and dry safety equipment, lifejackets

What are the lighting requirements for boats?

As boat lighting requirements change over time and differ by State, please consult your State Boating handbook.

See Education menu below for the Victorian Recreational Boating Safety Handbook.

When I stop at fishing spots is there an easier way to anchor?

We can professionally install a world‑class Lone Star Marine drum anchor winch to suit your boat.

Read our information on Lone Star Marine drum anchor winches.

What is the recommended maintenance for an outboard motor boat?

Follow the service schedule outlined in your marine engine owner’s manual. Most outboard motors require basic service every 100 hours or annually.

What is the recommended maintenance for a boat with sterndrive or inboard engine?

This will vary depending on the specific engine and drive system. It is best to check with the manufacturer and follow their specific recommendations. We recommend a basic service every 100 hours or annually.

When does a boat need a major service?

All service intervals on boats depend upon usage, but a major boat service should be performed at least every 3 years.

When should a boat trailer be serviced?

We recommend boat trailers be serviced annually to prevent breakdowns and safety problems on the road. All basic and major boat services also include inspection of your boat trailer. We will inform you of any problems that require rectification.

Why do boat engines require maintenance?

All engines of any type require maintenance to one degree or another, and boat engines work harder because they are often run at high RPM for extended periods of time.

What maintenance is necessary on a boat?

Engine, drive system, fuel and electrical systems, plumbing, moving parts, hull and topsides, canvas and upholstery all need to be maintained on a boat.

How much boat damage is due to poor maintenance?

Looking at a five-year-old boat that has been cared for versus one that wasn’t washed and maintained you can see an obvious difference. Even worse are the engine problems that accompany a lack of maintenance.

I have damaged my boat. Do you handle boat insurance repairs?

We repair boats insured with all the major insurance companies and specialist marine insurers.

What type of boats do you repair?

We repair all fishing boats, ski boats, pleasure cruisers, jet skis and small yachts.

I have found a boat I like. Can you do a pre‑purchase boat inspection on-site?

Due to advanced technology in today’s outboard motors and marine inboard engines, we can only inspect boats at our premises. We have inspected late model boats with significant motor damage due to poor choice of oils and fuel.

Can you determine how the outboard motor/engine has been run?

On modern outboard motors, a full engine diagnostics report will show hours run, engine RPM profile, temperature profile, fault history and failures.

Can my child wear an inflatable lifejacket

Inflatable lifejackets are generally not designed for children due to the fit and activation of them. If you do find an inflatable lifejacket designed for children ensure that your child is within the specified weight rating, that the chest measurements fit them, and that it has a crotch strap so they don’t fall out of the lifejacket if they enter the water.

How do I maintain inflatable lifejackets?

It is a Maritime Safety requirement that Inflatable PFD Lifejackets be serviced according to manufacturer specifications.

Annual service and testing of inflatable PFD lifejackets is specified by most manufacturers.

Learn more about lifejacket service and testing.

Do I need a distress beacon?

All recreational vessels heading out more than two nautical miles from the coast are required to carry an approved 406 Mhz emergency position indicating radio beacon (EPIRB). However, it is recommended that all vessels regardless of where they operate carry one.

How do I safely dispose of flares and distress beacons?

Contact your local police station to see if they will accept your expired flares.

Distress beacons must be disabled before disposal. Check the EPIRB or personal locater beacon (PLB) manufacturer's instructions for disablement and see if your local battery store or waste/recycling facility can take the battery.

How can a partner/friend determine the location of my boat?

A Sitecomm GPS tracking device can be fitted to your boat that supports vessel positioning and live tracking.