Spring Readiness Checklist for Boats and RVs
Joe Collins
April 30th, 2024
Spring is right around the corner, and that means it’s almost time to hit the road, or waves. But after months in storage, your RV or boat needs a little TLC before you’re ready to go. Here’s your go-to checklist, packed with expert-backed tips, so you're ready for adventure the moment spring arrives.
1. Begin with a Thorough Clean & Visual Inspection
Boat: Pull off the cover and wash the hull, decks, and cabin. Clean out lockers and vacuum upholstery to root out moisture, critters, or grime that’s built up in storage.
RV: Rinse off spring grime, wash awnings, defrost the fridge, and dust every nook, especially those hidden crumbs that invite pests.
While cleaning, inspect the exterior for chipped paint, seal any cracks, check the boat hull for blisters, and eye your RV roof and seams for any leaks.
2. De-Winterize Plumbing & Water Systems
RV: Flush out antifreeze from freshwater lines, sanitize tanks with bleach solution, and then rinse until it’s crystal clear.
Boat: Drain bilges, fill and flush water systems following your prep steps, and inspect hoses and tanks for cracks or leaks.
3. Confirm Fluids, Oils & Filters
Boat Engines: Change oil and filters while the engine is warm, flush coolant systems, and fog the engine if needed.
RV Engines & Generator: Check engine oil, transmission, coolant, brakes, and generator fluids, and make sure to top up as required.
4. Test & Prepare Batteries
Battery Care: Charge or install your battery, test its voltage, clean terminals, and secure it properly.
Boaters: Re-install or connect to a charger, check lights, bilge pumps, navigation systems, and starter functionality.
5. Inspect Mechanical Components
Tires: Check pressure (they lose ~2-3 psi in storage), inspect for cracks or flat spots.
Boat Hull & Prop: Look for cracks, blisters, or peeling paint. Wash, wax, and polish so your boat glides with ease.
Check all hoses, belts, fittings, power steering (for stern drives), and propulsion lines.
6. Check Safety & Restock Supplies
Boat: Ensure life jackets, throwable PFDs, fire extinguishers, flares, and spare bulbs are aboard and unexpired.
RV: Test smoke detectors, CO/LP alarms, and fire extinguishers. Restock first-aid kits, tools, and camp essentials.
7. Ventilate & Moisture Control
Keep vents cracked to prevent musty odors. For RVs, open cabinets and run the heater briefly. For boats, open bilge and cabin vents and use desiccant packs if needed.
8. Final Touches & Test Runs
Boat: Conduct a short sea-trial, testing bilge pumps, gauges, and motor operation.
RV: Plug in all appliances: fridge, A/C, generator. Run the water pump, stove, and A/C to confirm everything functions before leaving.
Your Spring-Ready Checklist for Boats and RVs:
✔️ Wash & inspect exterior
✔️ Clean interior & storage
✔️ De-winterize plumbing
✔️ Change/flush fluids
✔️ Charge batteries
✔️ Check tires & hull
✔️ Test safety equipment
✔️ Ventilate & moisture control
✔️ Trial run (engine + systems)
Why MoreSpace Sunrise Self StorageSelf Storage in Rancho Cordova is Your Best Launchpad
Our gated, 24/7 monitored facility with wide lanes makes prepping your boat or RV a breeze. You’ll have the space to clean, test, and load without cluttering your driveway, and peace of mind knowing your gear is secure between adventure-packed weekends.
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