Boat Troubleshooting

Expert advice, how-to guides, and gear reviews from our marine team to help you maintain, repair, and enjoy your boat.

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How Do I Troubleshoot a Boat That Won't Start After Sitting All Winter?

How Do I Troubleshoot a Boat That Won't Start After Sitting All Winter?

Quick AnswerStart with the battery, fuel system, and ignition components. Most boats that won't start after storage suffer from stale fuel, dischar...

Aug 7, 2026
What Are the Most Worthwhile Upgrades for a 20-Year-Old Fishing Boat?

What Are the Most Worthwhile Upgrades for a 20-Year-Old Fishing Boat?

Quick AnswerThe best upgrades typically include modern electronics, batteries, LED lighting, bilge pumps, hydraulic steering, updated wiring, and i...

Aug 7, 2026
How Do I Add Lithium Batteries to My Existing Marine Electrical System?

How Do I Add Lithium Batteries to My Existing Marine Electrical System?

Quick AnswerAdding lithium batteries to your boat can provide more usable power, faster charging, less weight, and longer battery life. However, be...

Aug 7, 2026
Why does my bilge pump keep running even when the bilge is dry?

Why does my bilge pump keep running even when the bilge is dry?

A bilge pump that runs continuously is one of the most common boating problems and should never be ignored. While the issue may be something simple...

Aug 7, 2026
What Propeller Upgrade Will Improve Hole Shot Without Losing Top Speed?

What Propeller Upgrade Will Improve Hole Shot Without Losing Top Speed?

Quick AnswerIf you're looking for better hole shot without sacrificing top-end performance, the most successful propeller upgrades usually involve ...

Aug 7, 2026
What Causes Hydraulic Steering to Feel Stiff and Hard to Turn?

What Causes Hydraulic Steering to Feel Stiff and Hard to Turn?

Why Is My Hydraulic Steering Stiff? Causes, Diagnosis, and SolutionsHydraulic steering systems provide smooth, effortless control and are commonly ...

Aug 6, 2026
Why Is My Marine Engine Overheating Only at Higher RPM?

Why Is My Marine Engine Overheating Only at Higher RPM?

Quick AnswerA marine engine that runs at normal temperature while idling but overheats at cruising speed or wide-open throttle typically has a cool...

Aug 6, 2026
What Is the Best Way to Upgrade My Boat's Navigation Lights to LED?

What Is the Best Way to Upgrade My Boat's Navigation Lights to LED?

Quick AnswerUpgrading your boat's navigation lights to LED is one of the most cost-effective electrical improvements you can make. Properly selecte...

Aug 5, 2026
How Do I Stop Water Leaks Around Portlights and Cabin Windows?

How Do I Stop Water Leaks Around Portlights and Cabin Windows?

Quick AnswerWater leaks around portlights, cabin windows, and fixed glazing are among the most common problems on aging boats. While the leak may a...

Aug 5, 2026
How Do I Determine Whether My Propeller Is the Wrong Pitch?

How Do I Determine Whether My Propeller Is the Wrong Pitch?

Choosing the correct propeller pitch is one of the most important factors in getting maximum performance, fuel economy, and engine life from your b...

Aug 5, 2026

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How Do I Troubleshoot a Boat That Won't Start After Sitting All Winter?

How Do I Troubleshoot a Boat That Won't Start After Sitting All Winter?

Quick Answer Start with the battery, fuel system, and ignition components. Most boats that won't start after storage suffer from stale fuel, disch...
What Are the Most Worthwhile Upgrades for a 20-Year-Old Fishing Boat?

What Are the Most Worthwhile Upgrades for a 20-Year-Old Fishing Boat?

Quick Answer The best upgrades typically include modern electronics, batteries, LED lighting, bilge pumps, hydraulic steering, updated wiring, and...
How Do I Add Lithium Batteries to My Existing Marine Electrical System?

How Do I Add Lithium Batteries to My Existing Marine Electrical System?

Quick Answer Adding lithium batteries to your boat can provide more usable power, faster charging, less weight, and longer battery life. However,...
Why does my bilge pump keep running even when the bilge is dry?

Why does my bilge pump keep running even when the bilge is dry?

A bilge pump that runs continuously is one of the most common boating problems and should never be ignored. While the issue may be something simp...
What Propeller Upgrade Will Improve Hole Shot Without Losing Top Speed?

What Propeller Upgrade Will Improve Hole Shot Without Losing Top Speed?

Quick Answer If you're looking for better hole shot without sacrificing top-end performance, the most successful propeller upgrades usually invo...
What Causes Hydraulic Steering to Feel Stiff and Hard to Turn?

What Causes Hydraulic Steering to Feel Stiff and Hard to Turn?

Why Is My Hydraulic Steering Stiff? Causes, Diagnosis, and Solutions Hydraulic steering systems provide smooth, effortless control and are commonl...
Why Is My Marine Engine Overheating Only at Higher RPM?

Why Is My Marine Engine Overheating Only at Higher RPM?

Quick Answer A marine engine that runs at normal temperature while idling but overheats at cruising speed or wide-open throttle typically has a ...
What Is the Best Way to Upgrade My Boat's Navigation Lights to LED?

What Is the Best Way to Upgrade My Boat's Navigation Lights to LED?

Quick Answer Upgrading your boat's navigation lights to LED is one of the most cost-effective electrical improvements you can make. Properly sel...
How Do I Stop Water Leaks Around Portlights and Cabin Windows?

How Do I Stop Water Leaks Around Portlights and Cabin Windows?

Quick Answer Water leaks around portlights, cabin windows, and fixed glazing are among the most common problems on aging boats. While the leak m...
How Do I Determine Whether My Propeller Is the Wrong Pitch?

How Do I Determine Whether My Propeller Is the Wrong Pitch?

Choosing the correct propeller pitch is one of the most important factors in getting maximum performance, fuel economy, and engine life from your...