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To prepare for the 2008 boating season, I performed motor maintenance, replaced some tape on the rigging, and checked all systems. I replaced flares this year, checked the galley, and checked all personal flotation devices.

Motor

A few months ago, I had the motor serviced. The oil was changed, the lower end oil was changed, and pivot points were greased. While I had it in the shop, I had the impeller replaced since the motor had gone through three seasons of use. I replaced the fuel filter and spark plug, too.

When I got the motor back from the shop, I remounted it on the boat and ran it for about 20 minutes to make sure it was working well.

Rigging

I raised the mast and checked all cable and rope. The self-bonding tape I used two years ago to cover the swages (because they were snagging lines) had deteriorated, and some of the tape was coming off. I pulled the damaged ones off and replaced them with fresh self-bonding tape.

I lubricated all pulleys with silicone spray, both above deck and below.

Some of the lines are getting a little stiff, so I'll probably wash them this year.

Systems

I charged the batteries, and checked interior and running lights. The VHF marine radio was tested. I made sure the water in the water bladder was potable and the hand pump was working.

I wiped down the Porta-Potti and recharged it.

After going through the galley/cooking supplies, I made sure I had fuel canisters for the stove and tested the stove.

Safety

I checked the expiration date on my handheld and 12-gauge aerial flares. All had expired at the end of 2007 or early in 2008. I bought new ones from West Marine.

While I was looking at safety supplies, I reviewed my first aid kit.

I need to recharge my auto-inflating PFD this year.