Tutor for ongoing boat maintenance

R

RobLL

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Joined
Aug 5, 2014
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C Dory Year
2007
C Dory Model
22 Cruiser
One of the things I never did was work on cars or small motors. Ever. I always managed to cope pretty well by catching things early and driving or taking things to a shop. This plan does not work with my boat. At all!

I have asked mechanics about things, but they were not interested in being watched or teaching. Anyone know someone in the Kitsap area who is a teacher and would be interested in selling me a hands on tutorial session from time to time.

The fuel filters, bilge pumps, safely charging a battery, including what tools needed etc.
 
Someone in person would be great - and you're in a good area for it. However, just as another option, I have learned quite a bit on youtube. I always watch a few videos to sort of average out the techniques. I also find that if I read the comments, sometimes there is additional good info there (or a comment about what could have been improved in the video technique).

Just this spring I used youtube as coaching before I changed the oil, filter, and lower unit oil on my Yamaha for the first time (other times I've had a dealer do it). It made all the difference (I also looked through the Yamaha manual).

Best thing is it's all at eye level! No climbing under the hood or crawling under the dashboard like on a car :D
 
Don't forget "C Brats". A number of folks willing to help walk you thru issues there.
 
Wish you were closer as I would love to help you. Really all the thing you are talking about are basic and you should be able to do them your self just by following the manuals or you tube. You tube is a wonderful tool for those that did not have a proper up bringing in the maintenance department. I can fix things because I had to not because I want to but it teaches you how to figure things out. When every I cant figure how to repair something, or I just want to see the right way to do it, I youtube search it.

as an example if you search safely change a battery you find lots of videos.
 
The relative simplicity of our boats does not present me with much of a challenge (electrical not withstanding :lol: but I slog through it). If I don't know how to do something or have a question, I know there are myriad resources available.

Now a complex engine repair or issue is another matter. But basic maintenance is not much different than any modern car. Plugs, filters, engine oil, gear oil, lubrication of moving parts w/ grease...pretty much it.

I'd be more concerned w/ a more complex boat such as a trawler; diesel engine, complex electrical, complex steering system...just so much more to maintain and learn HOW to maintain.

We've actually talked about "moving up" once we retire. The ability to take our g-kids etc being one reason. But the complexity and lack of trailer mobility keep us in the present, at least for now.

I'd check with your local community college also. They have "adult" classes in all kinds of things. Mechanics should be available. It will give you a basic starting point, especially for the basic maintenance I mentioned above.
 
A bunch of us walked over to the Manette Days festival. My sister recognized one of the fellows 'manning' a booth for people running small business/services. I mentioned my need of a mechanic/instructor. Before I could finish he told me that he knew just the person I wanted.

So I now have a boater/mechanic/instructor. And he uses a Lowrance plotter to boot! I needed some help with that too.
 
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