To prolong the life of your Bayliner Yachts, take a few minutes after each use to ensure it is clean and covered so you are ready to hit the water again as soon as the weather permits.

ENGINE

After each boating adventure, you need to flush your boat's engine in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations (see your engine owner's manual). This is also a good time to check fuel and oil levels so you can replenish these fluids before your next excursion.

WAX

Similar to your car, your boat needs a regular application of wax to keep its shine and to minimize the effort you expend during each washing. This is a good family and boating crew activity when being on the water is not an option. Waxing will help reduce the risk of fading and chalking of surfaces exposed to the sun. By keeping up with this process, you can avoid the extra work involved in buffing the deck and hull to restore its luster. Visit your local dealer or a marine retailer for boat wax and wash products.

WINDOWS

It is always a good idea to dry windows and isinglass (clear vinyl covers) with a soft clean cloth to prevent water spots. Water deposits can be difficult to remove if allowed to dry and this will obscure visibility through the window. Be sure to use only water on Plexiglas windshields or isinglass because abrasive window cleaners will cause these materials to fog or yellow.

HULL AND DECK STAINS

Speaking of deposits, birds will generally enjoy sitting on your boat every bit as much as you do. On the occasion that they leave you a little special something on your deck or canvas cover, work quickly to remove it to prevent a permanent stain. This may require the use of an abrasive cleaner such as Comet, Soft Scrub or a hull cleaner product on the deck followed by a re-application of wax in the area.

If your boat does not have bottom paint but sits in the water for an extended period, the hull may take on a tint from the minerals in the water. There are commercially available hull cleaners to help you remove the discoloration.

CANVAS AND CUSHIONS

When you hose off your boat's cockpit area, the removable cushions and vinyl can be cleaned as well using a soft bristle brush and mild boat soap. Even if you can't see dirt, sun screen and other products could be harmful to the vinyl. It is helpful to remove excess water and position cushions in such a way that they can air dry.

To clean Sunbrella canvas or covers, while still on a boat, follow these simple steps. Brush off loose debris and hose down the area. Prepare a cleaning solution of water and mild soap such as Ivory Snow, Dreft or Woolite (no detergents).Use a soft bristle brush to clean while allow the cleaning solution to soak into the fabric. Rinse thoroughly until all soap residue is removed. Air dry.

Sunbrella fabrics have a special finish that enhances water repellency. The finish is designed to last for several years of normal use, but may be refreshed with 303 High Tech Fabric Guard, the preferred re-treatment product for Sunbrella fabrics. Visit the Sunbrella Web site for tougher stain removal.

INTERIORS

If you have an enclosed cabin or living area on your boat, it is a good idea to either use a dehumidifier or a product such as Damp Rid to prevent mold and mildew from growing. Without constant air flow, boat cabins can quickly succumb to moisture accumulation.

Your cabin interior is similar to upholstery and materials found in your home. Obviously you will not hose down the cabin, just clean each surface and remove stains from carpet and upholstery with a cleaner designed for that purpose.

TRAILERS

If you trailer your boat, a trailer can make or break your day. By taking care to wash it after each use and following regular maintenance of the hubs, tires and brakes, your trailer can last many years. Wash your trailer after you have washed your boat. Talk to your dealer about Buddy Bearings or appropriate lubing devices to keep your hubs from overheating on long hauls.