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Engine Upgrades
Engine upgrades are one of the most significant upgrades on boats for sale. When considering these, always seek help from professionals. Here are some factors to consider:
A marine engine conversion kit helps boost a boat's performance. For example, an internal combustion engine can be converted into an electric motor.
Repowering is replacing the old engine with a more modern and robust variant of the same engine. This helps increase reliability and efficiency. This is particularly useful for older boats needing more power.
Installing a more powerful motor can improve speed and enhance hauling capacity. Boats with outboard motors can switch to larger inboard engines for better performance and greater speed, stability, and range.
Upgrading to a fuel-injection system reduces fuel consumption by 10-15%. This also helps to reduce emissions. Owners barely notice the change unless experts or the warranty department are called in.
Hull and Gel Coat Repairs
Upgrading the hull of a unit improves seaworthiness and enhances aesthetic value. Here are some ways to upgrade it:
The gelcoat is the protective layer on the fiberglass hull. Replacing it rejuvenates the hull's look and serves as an added protection against leaks and water damage.
Polyester resin repairs minor cracks in the hull. This provides a waterproof seal against future cracking and delamination. Delamination occurs if repairs are not done after minor cracks appear.
Vinyl ester resin is a gelcoat and resin resistant to water penetration. It helps perform long-term repairs that add 5-10 years to the boat's lifespan. Besides, it is a waterproof-seal resin.
Fiberglass cloth strengthening repairs are done by first lamination that fixes cracks with resin-coated cloth. This adds structural integrity to soft or unstable hulls.
King StarBoard is a marine-grade plastic that replaces rotting wooden transoms and stringers. It does not rot like wood.
This is important as the transom is the rear part that holds the engine. It has to be stable and in good condition.
Wakesurfing equipment
Many boats are wakesurf-ready. Others may have some features that can be used for wakesurfing with some modifications. Here are some common upgrades to help make the boat wakesurf-ready:
Ballast bags add water weight to surf the boat's wake and make it larger or surfable, depending on the water conditions. This not only makes the wake bigger but also makes it safer for surfers.
Wake tabs work by adjusting the boat's bow height, making the wake larger without needing to go faster. This makes the wake more forgiving for beginners and surfers riding small boards.
Surf pipes are surf-assisted systems that modify the standard exhaust to decrease engine noise and allow better surf wake.
Wave makers create surf-friendly wakes even at low speeds and in calm water. They have in-built features like custom wake plates and desired water flow alteration.
It is also an aftermarket upgrade item added to boats not initially designed for wakesurfing. The aftermarket wave makers include some beneficial features similar to the OEM ones.
Dual batteries
Many boating gadgets and gear owners plug into the battery. A dual system ensures users never end up with a dead battery and are stranded without a power source.
Maintaining shipboard power is important, especially when using multiple electronic devices, such as GPS and fish-finders and powering onboard entertainment systems.
Boat dual battery systems consist of a primary (starting) battery used to power the boat's engine and an auxiliary (deep cycle) battery connected via an automatic isolator.
Wakesurfing
Wakesurfing has become so popular that many boats are made to have wakesurfing capabilities. Even so, existing boats can be upgraded to make wakesurf-ready. These are the modifications needed to make the boat wakesurf-friendly.
Ballast bags increase boat surf wake by adding water weight. This helps form a larger, smoother, and more surfable wake, making surfing safer in rough waters.
Wake plates and tabs hold the bow down and push more water toward the surf side to make the wake larger and more powerful.
A surf pipe transfers most exhaust to the water rather than the air. The air is silenced and made safer for wakesurfing.
Aftermarket wave makers are usually added to boats not made for wakesurfing but are equipped with features similar to OEM products.
Surfers of all skill levels can enjoy better surf sessions, from beginners to experienced surfers, with the help of larger and smoother wakes.
When selecting boat upgrades, consider the type, features, and quality of the items. Here are some factors to consider when choosing boat upgrades.
Purpose of the upgrade
Consider whether the upgrade boosts performance, enhances aesthetics, or improves comfort. This helps to clarify whether to prioritize functional or cosmetic changes.
Professional help
Some upgrades, like engine repowering or hull modifications, require professional installation. Weigh the cost of DIY versus professional installation, considering the complexity and safety requirements of the upgrade.
Material conposition
Fiberglass reinforced plastic boats are upgraded with super-strong and durable hulls made from a fiber-resin combination called FRP.
Stainless steel railings or hardware, such as the anchor, handrails, and other fittings, resist corrosion and improve the boat's durability and aesthetics like metal bronze, below the waterline.
Usage scenarios
Consider how often and in what conditions the boat will be used. This helps prioritize upgrades that enhance safety, comfort, or performance based on the typical usage profile.
Budget
Make a comprehensive list of checklists categorized in expense, essential, and optional to make an informed financial decision. Going through these lists helps avoid overspending on non-essential upgrades or missing critical enhancements.
Weight balance
As more equipment is mounted, the weight distribution on the boat has to be noted. While signs of such are not visible from outside, they also influence how stable the boat is. The added features should not make a boat top-heavy or cause a shift in the boat's center of gravity.
Upgrading a boat makes it more functional or more desirable, for whatever use it is intended. Here are some functional reasons various upgrades are done and their maintenance requirements:
Wakeboard and wakesurf gear
Upgrading to wakesurfing and wakeboarding gear expands the boat's versatility for tow sports, accommodating various skill levels.
Upgrades include adding ballast bags and wake plates and aftermarket wave makers to make the boat wakesurf capable, even at slow speeds and calm water.
Ballast bags increase the weight and size of surfable wake, and wake plates and tabs carve water into a larger, smoother wake.
Maintenance involves periodic inspection of the bags for leaks, the plates for corrosion, and ensured the tabs are properly calibrated and functioning. Properly store and protect these components from weather-related degradation.
Upgraded sound systems
Upgraded marine sound systems enhance entertainment value for owners and guests. This involves tweaking old components with new speakers, amplifiers, and head units.
This also includes auxiliary input to cater to modern playback devices and waterproof enclosures for marine settings. Special attention has to be paid to wiring to ensure the system runs effectively without draining the boat's battery.
Dual batteries
A dual battery system ensures all electronic devices can be powered without draining the primary battery, which is dedicated to starting the engine. This includes a primary (starting) battery and auxiliary (deep cycle) for electronics.
Automatic isolators keep batteries charged while preventing parasitic draw on the starting battery.
Maintenance: Regularly check battery connections, clean corrosion, and test battery health. Replace batteries every 3-5 years or as needed. Isolators also need periodic inspection to ensure they are functioning properly.
Engine upgrades
Engine upgrades improve speed, fuel efficiency, and overall reliability for recreational pleasure. These might include switching from a less powerful to an inboard motor and adding a fuel-injected engine.
Repowering replaces worn-out engines with newer, more powerful variants. Maintenance requirements, such as oil changes, inspections, and filter replacements, are more frequent and sometimes costly.
Cosmetic upgrades
Cosmetic upgrades range from repainting the boat, installing new seating, or adding a custom canopy intended to enhance beauty and comfort.
These might also include adding non-slip flooring and installing marine-grade waterproof speakers.
Maintenance: Depending on the materials used, cosmetic upgrades require regular cleaning, waxing, and sometimes waterproofing or conditioning to ensure longevity.
Shipping method
Marinas and boat owners are still keen on shipping upgrades for boats safely. Common methods include: Flat rack shipping involves securing the boat to a flatbed rack and shipping it via container ship, truck, or train.
A container ship is where containers are loaded onto the boat. This is a more secure environment, as the container can be climate-controlled and is less likely to experience damage from storms, rough seas, or theft.
Shrink wrapping a boat on a trailer or boat stand and piling it up with other similar-sized boats in a CONE means better pricing as the boats will be stacked one over the other in a cost-effective manner.
Bulk carriers are purpose-built for transporting boats in cradle and with minimal deck lashing measures. As many boats are relatively small, up to 20 feet in length, this can be an economical transport solution.
Custom crating and containerization
Unless sent for a container boat or bulk shipping, it's important to consider having a custom crate built for the boat. Containers and crates have to be padded correctly with cushioning materials like foam, bubble wrap, and blankets around the boat to ensure it doesn't slide or collide with anything in transport.
Some common boat upgrades include: Wakesurfing and wakeboarding gear Marine sound systems Dual batteries Engine upgrades Cosmetic upgrades
Boat upgrades improve functionality, safety, or aesthetics, while cosmetic ones enhance the boat's appearance without improving performance. If the boat is for sale, some internal and cosmetic work will have to be done to get a good bargain.
To ensure upgrades ship safely, use sturdy materials like marine-grade plywood, bubble wrap, and foam for cushioning. Transport the upgrade items in properly sealed and labeled containers or crates to prevent movement during transit.
Fishing upgrades include high-quality fishing rods, enhancing the boat's fishing capabilities or a fishfinder, and making the boat fishing-ready.
Batteries have to replaced at least every three to five years, although it is advisable to do so when upgrading to new gadgets for the boat.
