In many ways, owning a boat is the same as owning an automobile. The difference, of course, is that the boat needs water. You need to stop and think about the way you take care of your automobile. You probably have a garage or carport to protect it from the weather. You also make sure to take it in for oil changes, tune-ups, and tire rotations on a regular basis if you can't do them yourself. In addition, you probably have a few spare parts or fluids in the house, garage, or trunk of the car just in case you need them. You should have the same attitude toward your boat. Here are a few of the things you should always keep on hand to help maintain the vessel when you can't or don't want to call in a professional.
Impellers
Any pump that sucks in water from outside the boat can receive impeller damage. Small stones, seaweed, and other debris can come into the pump and jam or destroy its impeller quickly. Replacing an impeller is not a big job, and you should be able to do it yourself out on the water if necessary. Of course, make sure you have a spare and you have the tools that fit the pump so you can take it apart.
Small Pieces
Make sure you have spare thumbscrews in a variety of sizes on the boat. You don't want to find out a few have fallen off into the water and not be able to replace them. You should also keep spare O-rings and washers around. You don't want to have to use paper gaskets you make in a hurry because you don't have the right small piece to fit. Paper gaskets and water are not a good mix, you will end up having to replace them very often.
Fluids
Just like your auto, your boat needs oil, transmission fluid, coolant, and lubricant in the boat at all times. Keep in mind, if you have a problem with your vehicle, you can get out and walk to town. When the problem is with your vessel, you may not be able to swim to shore. In addition, your mobile phone may not have service out in the middle of a lake or ocean.
Anchor
While not necessarily a spare, it is a good idea to have a couple of different types of anchors on board. You can never be sure what the bottom of the water is going to be comprised of, so have anchors that work in different mediums. If you are lucky enough to be able to contact someone to come tow your disabled vessel, you need to be able to tell them where you are. If the anchor doesn't hold, you may drift further than the rescue boat can see.
With these tips in mind, visit a local marine maintenance parts supply store.
