Ahoy Mateys! Your Boston Whaler's Looking a Little Waterlogged? Don't Panic, Grab a Mop (and Maybe Some Tequila)
Let's face it, finding water in your Boston Whaler is about as pleasant as stepping on a rogue Lego in bare feet. But fear not, fair weather sailor! Before you resign yourself to a lifetime of bilge pumping, there are ways to get your trusty vessel back to shipshape (and hopefully less leaky) condition.
How To Get Water Out Of Boston Whaler Hull |
Step 1: Diagnose the Deluge - It's Not Always What You Think
Now, before we start drilling holes willy-nilly like a crazed carpenter, let's identify the culprit. A little water sloshing around isn't necessarily a disaster. Here's the thing: Boston Whalers are known for having some water in their foam core. It's kind of like a built-in pool float – keeps them buoyant even if they take on a little extra.
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But here are some red flags to watch for:
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- Excessive Weight: If your Whaler feels like it's suddenly become a lead balloon, that might be a sign of a more serious soakage situation.
- De-lamination Drama: If you tap the hull and hear a dull thud instead of a crisp sound, it could mean the water's causing the fiberglass to separate from the foam. Yikes!
Still not sure? Don't be shy, consult a professional! A boat mechanic can be your best friend when it comes to diagnosing watery woes.
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Step 2: Operation: De-Water (Unless You Like the Squirting Sounds)
Alright, so you've confirmed your Whaler's a bit more like a sponge than a ship. Now it's time to unleash your inner plumber (hopefully with less questionable fashion choices). Here are a few options, but remember, choose the method that matches your comfort level and DIY skills:
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- The Great Drain Plug Caper: This might seem obvious, but hey, sometimes the simplest solutions are the best. Check your drain plug – is it clogged or loose? A quick fix could save you a whole lot of hassle.
- The Tilted Trailer Trick: For a more passive approach, try tilting your trailer so the water drains out naturally from the transom (the back bit). Patience is key here, so grab a good book and settle in for the long haul.
- The Strategic Spill (Use with Caution!): If you're feeling a little bolder, you can strategically drill small holes in the lowest points of the hull to allow water to drain. Warning: Do your research on proper placement and size of holes! Drilling willy-nilly could weaken your hull.
Remember: Once the water's gone, you'll need to plug those holes with a marine-grade sealant to keep your Whaler watertight again.
FAQ: Because We Know You Have Questions (and Maybe Still Some Tequila)
- How to find the drain plug on a Boston Whaler? Consult your owner's manual or a quick Google search for your specific model. It's usually located near the transom.
- How big of a hole should I drill to drain the water? Small! Think half-inch or less. Again, research is your friend here.
- What kind of sealant should I use to plug the holes? Look for a marine-grade sealant specifically designed for hulls.
- How long will it take for the water to drain? Depends on the severity of the soakage. Patience is a virtue, my friend.
- Can I use a shop vac to suck out the water? Maybe, but proceed with caution! High-powered vacuums can damage the hull.
And there you have it! With a little know-how and maybe a celebratory margarita (because hey, boat problems are stressful!), you can get your Boston Whaler back on the water and ready to conquer the waves (or at least enjoy a peaceful sunset cruise).