Boating Resources & Tips

Boating Resources & Tips2025-12-18T13:51:40+00:00

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Service

Boat;

Test auto and manual bilge, livewell(s), macerator pump, stereo, VHF, GPS, trim tabs, lights, Power-Pole(s), jack plate, trolling motor, raw and fresh water washdown, gauges, and ensure all safety equipment is present.

Engine;

Run motor and get engine hours, check compression and leakdown, check gearcase lube, check spark plugs, check tilt and trim operation, check steering, check crankcase oil, check fuel and fuel water separator, check control cables, check ignition switch functions, check operating temperature and tell-tale, check batteries and connections.

Check hours, replace fuel water separator, check and change gearcase lube, check tilt and trim operation, check steering, check transom mounting bolts, clean battery connections, grease engine fittings, check fuel system, check control cables, check prop and shaft, check ignition switch functions, check operating temperature and tell-tale, check idle speed, change engine oil and filter, run engine.

Check steering & control cables, check ignition switch functions, record hours and check codes, test battery – charge as needed, check tilt & trim fluid and function, grease all fittings, change gearcase fluid and check for water, check prop, change plugs, change engine oil and filter, check anodes, replace fuel water separator, check engine fuel filter, check fuel system for leaks, check battery wiring and clean connections, run engine, leak check, reset maintenance reminder.

Test Auto and manual bilge, livewell(s), macerator pump, stereo, VHF, GPS, trim tabs, lights, Power-Pole(s), jack plate, trolling motor, raw and fresh water washdown,  and gauges.

The most frequent issues we see come through our shop lie within the fuel system. Fuel related maintenance is inexpensive compared to spending thousands in fuel related repairs. Yamaha has some great tips when it comes to maintaining your fuel system.

You can also read their article for product recommendations and do it yourself maintenace here.

Your fuel water separator is the first line of defense when it comes to your fuel system. You want to make sure you are changing your fuel water separator every 50 hours or 6 months – whichever comes first.

New Boats

Curious about some of Yamaha’s key features? Below are some videos of select popular Yamaha Outboard models.

Congratulations on your new Yamaha Outboard Motor!

We know the break-in procedure can seem complicated. We have included a helpful video from Yamaha on how to properly break in your motor for optimal performance.

There are multiple diffrerent options when it comes to selecting what gauges suit your needs.

Full analog: Yamaha offers multiple analog options for all gauge types. Backlit and featuring a modern faceplate, they are perfect for those who prioritize function.

Digital gauges: Both analogue and digital signal gauges are also available. Analogue signal is their most affordable digital gauge option. Exclusively compatible with mechanical control Yamaha outboards. Digital signal is a more streamlined gauge option, offering a wider range of information. Compatible with both mechanical and DEC engines.

Premium touchscreen: Yamaha is now offering a premium 5.5″ touch screen display. Compatible with all Yamaha outboards, up to four motors simulatneously.

Learn more here.

DEC and DES stand for ‘Digital Electric Control’ and ‘Digital Electric Steering’ respectively.

DEC controls are available in either single or duel handle binnacles for twin through quad engine application. Compatible with Yamaha’s CL5 gauge.

DES steering is available in two different forms. Bolt on DES which is compatible with nearly all DEC motors. Making it possible to upgrade from traditional hydraulic steering to DES. And, built-in DES which is the first fully integrated steer-by-wire system.

Helm Master EX is Yamaha’s fully integrated boat control system. A fully expandable system, there are four tiers that can stand alone, or work as the building blocks towards full maneuverability. The first two tiers are DEC and DES respectively, then you introduce autopilot, and the final tier – joystick. The culmination of these four tiers is Yamaha’s Helm Master EX Full Manueverability.

You can find a breakdown of every tier and it’s features here.

Or check out videos, features, and simulated examples of full manueverability here.

General

Properly winterizing your boat and motor are imperative to maintaining the longevity of your motor. Winterization can prevent thousands of dollars in fuel system repairs come spring.

Here is a link to Yamaha’s ‘Let’s prep for extended storage’ article, with some helpful tips and product recommendations. Below, we have also attached a Maintenance Matters video, showcasing a winterization.

There are many MFD options available for your vessel, depending on the size and function you are looking for. Garmin offers Chartplotters ranging from 5″-24″ for all dash and helm applications.

Click here for availible models

Click here for a chartplotter overview

Click here for a basic navigation FAQ

Click here for expert videos

The Garmin Support Youtube channel also has a ton of helpful tips and guides for anyone just getting started, or looking for tutorials. See two of their ‘Getting Started’ videos below

What is radar and how does it work?

Garmin Marine is the leading brand in marine technology. When it comes to radar options, there are multiple different technologies such as solid state vs. magnetron. Offered in multiple size and power options. Garmin radar systems also come equipped with some advanced features that may be suitable for those who take their boating seriously.

Find which marine products are right for you.

For current owners looking for troubleshooting, see the video below.

 

Power-Pole is the original Shallow Water Hydraulic Anchor. As a certified Power-pole dealer we can both install and repair your Power-Pole. Interested in more information?

For new Power-Pole owners, we have linked where to find the owner’s manuals for both the Individual and One Pump models. You can find those here.

What is a trolling motor?

A trolling motor is a smaller electric motor installed to run a boat at consistent slow speeds, ideal for fishing. To help select the trolling motor that is right for you, Minn Kota has crafted a Trolling Motor Selection Guide.

Considering installing a jackplate on your outboard? Selecting the proper jackplate may seem intimidating.

TH Marine has written an incredibly informative article answering some frequently asked questions that you can find here.

Featured Content

Off Season Maintenance and Winterization Now that boating season has slowed, and many won't be using their boats until the weather warms; it is important to properly maintain and store your boat and motor. Proper preperation for the off-season is what sets your boating season up for success come spring. There are a few steps we take when winterizing your outboard motor to ensure it is ready to withstand the cold during extended storage. [...]

By |December 15, 2025|Categories: Uncategorized|Comments Off on

Yamaha’s Maintenance Matters & Maintenance Schedule

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