You rely on your boat’s electrical system to run lights, electronics, appliances, pumps and gauges – and to start the engine – so annual servicing is critical. Here’s a checklist of tasks courtesy of Kingman Yacht Center in Pocasset, MA to keep in mind when you take a look at your electric system this spring.
- Clean D/C positive and negative wiring connections, batteries, fuse blocks, circuit protection and engines
- Remove starter, inspect for corrosion, service all terminal connections and grease bendix
- Inspect alternator for signs of corrosion, check and service all terminal connections
- Check and replace alternator V-belt. Ensure proper alignment and tension
- Disconnect and clean any corrosion from both ends of engine instrument harness connections
- Clean and seal all bonding connections, replace compromised terminal ends
- Service nav light sockets and install bulbs in dielectric grease
- Check navigational gear for software updates and all connections for antenna and power inputs
- Inspect A/C wiring from shore inlet to battery charger, circuit protection through to ground fault protections
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Remove connectors from electronics spray wth contact cleaner & replace
It sure got me when you mentioned the importance of inspecting the wiring of the AC from the shore to the inlet battery charger to ensure that everything is protected. If that is the case, then I have been ignoring a maintenance necessity for a long time now and broke something as a result. I will be sure to keep this in mind once I get the broken parts replaced so that it doesn’t happen again.