Protect Your Boat: How To Extend The Life Of Your Thruster
If you own a boat, it's important that you provide the proper care and maintenance. Part of that maintenance includes replacing the thruster. If it's time to replace the thruster, you want the new one to last as long as possible. That way, you can save money on the replacement costs. One way to extend the life of your new thruster is to ensure good routine maintenance. If you're not sure how to care for your new thruster, read the information provided below. You'll find four tips that will help you to protect your new thruster.
Provide Care for the Anodes
If you're relatively new to boat ownership, you might not realise how important the anodes are to your thruster. Unfortunately, that lack of knowledge could lead to some serious problems for your boat. In fact, without proper anode care, your thruster will wear out much more quickly than it should. Luckily, there are some simple steps you can take to protect the anodes. The most important step is to clean your anodes with a wire brush before you head out onto the water. Cleaning the anodes will remove any signs of oxidation. Also, replace your anodes at least once a year.
Monitor Thruster Compartment
When it comes to caring for your thruster, it's important that you monitor the thruster compartment, which is the protected compartment that houses the thruster. First, you want to make sure that the area around the thruster is free of clutter. Second, you want to make sure that the thruster compartment is dry and free of any moisture. Third, you want to wipe off any carbon dust that might be present on the thruster. Finally, you want to make sure that all of the electrical connections are tight and free of corrosion.
Ensure Proper Operating Voltage
If you want to extend the life of your thruster, you'll need to ensure proper operating voltage. Trying to operate the thruster with the wrong voltage readings can cause serious damage. Voltage testing should be conducted at least once a month while the boat is in the water. Trying to test thruster voltage while your boat is out of the water can cause the system to overheat. If your thruster isn't operating at the right voltage, you'll need to take care of repairs as soon as possible.
Clear Away the Marine Growth
If you plan to keep your boat in the water at all times, you can expect to encounter some marine growth. This growth can include the algae and barnacles that tend to attach themselves to the underside of a boat. Unfortunately, marine growth can damage the thruster and interfere with performance. To avoid damage and a reduction in performance, the marine growth should be removed from the thruster propellers before the problem gets out of control.
Contact a supplier of products like Vetus thrusters to learn more.