Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Boat Mount in Top Shape

Investing in a high-quality boat mount, like those from Remote Troll, can significantly enhance your fishing experience. But to keep your boat mount performing at its best, regular maintenance is key. With the right care, you can extend the life of your boat mount and ensure smooth, reliable operation on every outing. In this post, we’ll share essential tips for maintaining your remote-controlled boat mount and keeping it in top shape for years to come.

1. Clean Your Boat Mount After Each Use

Saltwater, dirt, and debris can build up on your boat mount after each trip, leading to potential corrosion and wear. To prevent damage:

• Rinse your boat mount thoroughly with fresh water after every outing, especially if you’ve been in saltwater.
• Use a soft cloth or sponge to remove any grime, paying special attention to joints and moving parts.
• Avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the mount’s components.

By cleaning your mount regularly, you reduce the risk of long-term damage and ensure that it continues to operate smoothly.

2. Inspect for Loose or Worn Parts

Before and after each trip, inspect your boat mount for any signs of wear and tear, such as loose bolts, cracks, or worn components. Common areas to check include:

• Mounting brackets: Ensure that the brackets securing your mount to the boat are tight and secure. Loose bolts can lead to instability, especially in rough water.
• Electrical connections: For remote-controlled mounts, inspect the wiring and connections to ensure they’re not frayed or damaged. Loose or exposed wires can affect performance and may pose a safety risk.
• Propellers (if applicable): If your mount has a motor with a propeller, check for any nicks, cracks, or damage that could affect efficiency.

Catching small issues early can prevent costly repairs down the road.

3. Lubricate Moving Parts

To keep your boat mount functioning smoothly, it’s essential to lubricate all moving parts regularly. Proper lubrication reduces friction and wear, extending the life of your mount. Focus on these areas:

• Pivot points: Apply marine-grade lubricant to pivot points, hinges, and joints.
• Motor components: For motorized mounts, lubricate any exposed gears or bearings, following the manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Remote control mechanisms: Ensure that any moving parts related to your remote control system are well-lubricated for responsive, consistent performance.

Remember, using a lubricant designed for marine environments is critical, as it withstands water exposure and prevents rust.

4. Store Your Boat Mount Properly

When not in use, how you store your boat mount can greatly impact its longevity. Here are a few storage tips to protect your investment:

• Keep it dry: Store your mount in a dry location to avoid moisture buildup, which can lead to rust and corrosion.
• Cover it up: If your boat is stored outdoors, use a waterproof cover to shield the mount from rain, snow, and UV damage. Direct exposure to the elements can weaken the mount over time.
• Disconnect the power: For remote-controlled mounts, disconnect the battery or power source when not in use to prevent draining the battery and avoid potential electrical issues.

Proper storage ensures that your boat mount remains in peak condition during the off-season or when not in use.

5. Perform Regular Electrical System Checks

For remote-controlled mounts, maintaining the electrical system is crucial for consistent performance. Regularly check the following:

• Battery health: Ensure your boat’s battery is fully charged and in good condition. A weak battery can lead to inconsistent mount performance or failure in the water.
• Remote control: Test the remote-control unit before each trip to ensure it’s responsive and fully functional. Replace batteries in the remote as needed.
• Wiring: Inspect all wiring for signs of wear, corrosion, or loose connections. Faulty wiring can lead to performance issues, and it’s best to catch and fix these problems before they cause bigger headaches.

Addressing electrical issues early ensures your remote-controlled mount operates smoothly on every trip.

6. Follow the Manufacturer’s Guidelines

Each boat mount has specific care instructions from the manufacturer, so always refer to the user manual for maintenance guidelines. Remote Troll provides detailed instructions for maintaining their mounts, and following these recommendations is the best way to ensure longevity and performance.

Make sure to:

• Schedule professional servicing: Depending on how frequently you use your boat mount, it’s a good idea to have it professionally serviced once or twice a year. This ensures that any hidden issues are addressed before they become serious problems.
• Use approved parts and accessories: When replacing parts or adding accessories, always use those recommended by the manufacturer to avoid compatibility or performance issues.

Conclusion

With a little regular maintenance, your Remote Troll boat mount can deliver top performance for years. By cleaning it after every use, inspecting and lubricating moving parts, and properly storing it, you’ll not only extend its life but also ensure that it performs at its best on every fishing trip. Don’t forget to keep an eye on the electrical system, and always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for optimal care.

Taking these small steps will keep your boat mount in excellent shape, so you can enjoy more worry-free days on the water. After all, the less time you spend on maintenance, the more time you can spend fishing!