Can you spot the problem in the picture? So you think you know everything about boats? Here’s a challenge for any armchair boat mechanic, “boat techie,” or anyone with an interest in staying safe on the water and preventing their own boating mishap or breakdown.
This photo is provided by Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) Seaworthy Magazine, a publication that BoatUS members receive as a benefit of insuring their boat with the nation’s largest recreational boating advocacy, service and safety group. The picture was taken in the engine compartment of a twin gasoline-powered boat during a recent pre-purchase survey.
There are at least 11 technical faults that if not addressed, could cause serious problems. How many can you find? Here’s a hint – the problems fall into two main areas: Electrical and fuel/ventilation. To find the answers, you’re going to have to go to BoatUS.com/findthefaults.
All of the faults are based on standards developed and maintained by the American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC). Boats should be built – and maintained – to their standards. Boaters can familiarize themselves with a no cost, five-day trial ABYC membership at abycinc.org/join/freedemo.cfm that gives access. Additionally, boat surveyors rely upon ABYC standards during pre-purchase and condition-and-valuation surveys.
