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Due to the harsh nature of a marine environment, it is vital to clean and maintain any surface
that is painted, anodized, powder coated or sprayed with truck bedliner constantly. Failure to
perform preventative maintenance will result in pitting, discoloration, peeling, flaking and
corrosion of the coating and substrate. Parts that are painted, anodized powder coated or
sprayed with truck bed liner must be washed after every use and every three weeks when not
used with a mild soap (such as Ivory Liquid) and water solution. Strong cleaners and soaps
must never be used nor should you use abrasive cleaners or products that contain chlorine
bleach. These products can remove, discolor and/or corrode the coating. For maximum
protection coat these parts with a non-abrasive coating (e.g., wax and metal protector). The best
protectors will displace moisture, remove contaminates, and leave a waxy film/residue that
protects the underlying coating and substrate. Follow the application guidelines for the
product(s) you choose. Regardless of maintenance, don’t expect these coatings to last forever.
They don’t. In a marine environment, well maintained paint, powdercoat, anodizing and bedliner
can last five years or more. In some cases, environmental pollutants and the salinity of the
surrounding air and water will decrease the life expectancy of these coatings regardless of how
well you maintain them. If a part gets chipped or scratched, you should clean the area with soap
and water and then sand the area followed by etching it with a chemical etching compound
before applying a paint or similar coating over the affected area. This will prevent the start and
spread of corrosion to the underlying substrate.
Scuppers and Drains
Drains and scuppers have flap assemblies and/or floating balls that restrict the flow of water.
Inspect these areas periodically to make sure that they are free of debris. They must be periodic
replaced immediately if they become damaged or no longer seal properly. Failure to do so could
result in taking on water unnecessarily or sinking the boat.
Fuel System
You should be changing all fuel filters (including the fuel/water separator) annually. A good
practice is to replace the primer ball at the same time. Primer balls are made of rubber and
plastic and they become brittle and develop leaks over time. That process is accelerated in cold
weather and exposure to saltwater. If you experience an issue that you suspect may be related
to the fuel system you can test it by connecting a portable tank to the engine and operating it. If
the problem persists the likely cause is with the engine itself. If the problem goes away, then the
source must be in the boat’s fuel system. One component that should be inspected if a
restriction occurs is the anti-siphon valve. If fuel does not flow properly through this part it must
be cleaned and/or replaced. This is not a permanent part. The rate of required replacement will
vary depending upon environment, use and fuels, but you should plan to replace every two
years at a minimum. Do not use fuels containing alcohol. Alcohol, particularly ethanol, absorbs
water that makes fuel more corrosive to metals in tanks and carburetors. It also shortens the
durability of elastomers such as hoses, primer balls and gaskets. After fueling, inspect the fuel
hoses, connections, and tanks for tightness, signs of leaks, and deterioration. Annually conduct
a more detailed inspection of fuel system components, especially those hidden from routine
inspection. Replace any fittings, deteriorated hoses, clamps or connections immediately.
Fuel Tank
If your boat has a fuel tank compartment it must be rinsed periodically, especially when used in
a salt-water environment. Dirt accumulation attracts salt that creates salt crystals. Salt crystals
can corrode metal surfaces if left untreated. To help protect your fuel tank from rust and/or
corrosion rinse the compartment with FRESH water. Remove any access plates from over the
fuel tank and inspect this area for leaks and loose lines. The access plates seal this area. Over
