It's not quite spring yet, but you can certainly see it from here – and that means spring commissioning is nearing. It's not too soon to start preparing for that annual rite, and doing so will get you out on the water while others are still finishing their work.
As much as we look forward to splashing the boat, it's no easy task. Dousing the winter protection, cleaning, repairs and maintenance are either time-consuming or expensive – and often both. It can be daunting.
Saving Money on Supplies There is much money to be saved by shopping online when it comes to spring outfitting. The trick is to catch the sales. Online retailers periodically offer discounts just like bricks-and-mortar stores, both on individual products and entire orders. If you have a list of the gear and supplies ready, you can jump when the sales hit. Often, you can get a discount, free shipping and pay no sales tax. If you plan to spend a few hundred dollars, the savings can add up. For example, a $300 purchase at 10 percent off with no taxes, assuming a 7 percent sales tax, becomes a $249 purchase. That's $51 you can throw in your tank. Moreover, your supplies are shipped straight to your house or – if you are really clever – your marina. Here are some offers available now. When it is time to buy, you'll have to use these links in order to take advantage of the discounts, and input a code at purchase in some cases. Through 3/20. Input code: 10OFF75 Through 3/20. Input code: 12OFF150 Through 4/9. No code. Through 4/9. No code.
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Start your preparation with a calendar. Figure out when you want to–or in colder areas, when you can–get on the water, then lock in the date. Consider making it an event, whether it's a day sail with friends, a weekend overnighter or even something longer. Setting a splash date will give you a goal and you can calibrate your work accordingly.
The next step is developing two important checklists: a task list and a shopping list. Your computer is a great place to prepare these lists in a form that can be easily maintained and updated–and ready for use next spring. I like doing my lists in an Excel spreadsheet, but you should use what you know. (For a story on checklists, see link).
Together, your calendar and lists allow you to plan your spring work. You can then go about working your plan.
TOUGH ITEMS FIRST
Start scheduling appointments now–while work for the marine trades is slack–for tasks that require the most lead time. Don't wait until April, when contractors are booked.
Propellers are a good example. Take them to your prop shop if they need to be tuned up, straightened or otherwise overhauled. Propellers are usually very accessible on most boats, even if the boats are covered. And the shop is not likely to be overly busy now.
Make appointments for engine work. Tuneups or de–winterizing can be scheduled now to be done later in the spring. Get on the mechanic's list and follow up often to make sure you haven't been forgotten. Most mechanics will be overwhelmed in the spring rush, so make sure (in a nice way) the mechanic remembers you.
If you are going to be doing the work yourself, start adding the supplies to your shopping list. Include brands, sizes and even part numbers where you can. It will make shopping much easier and cut down on returns. Filters, oil, fuel treatment and spark plugs should be on the list, as well as engine zincs, impellers, belts, hoses and any other supplies needed to get the boat's systems ready. Oil for the thruster, steering fluid and hydraulic fluid may also make the list. (For a story on engine maintenance, see link.)
This is a good time to go through your spares and update them as necessary. One trick is to use the spare parts in your kit to commission the boat, then buy new parts for the spares box. Doing this at winterization and spring commissioning insures that your spares are never too old. (For a list of common spare parts, see link).
Don't forget the dinghy motor. In fact, this is a great time of year to take it to your local dealer for a tune–up. Getting it in early will mean getting it back closer to when you'll actually need it.
The same goes for sails. If you have repairs that need to be done, call the loft and make an appointment to drop your sails.
Canvas is another item that requires some lead time. If your canvas needs repairs to last a few more years, get it into the shop now to re–stitch old thread or replace yellowed or scratched vinyl windows. If you are contemplating new canvas, get in touch with your canvas maker, who will most likely need to schedule a visit to your boat to take some measurements.
