Boat Anchoring Equipment Maintenance Tips
When thinking about boat maintenance, it’s easy to overlook something like the anchor, especially since it spends much of its time outside the boat and inside the water.
However, like any other piece of equipment, the anchor and the components that accompany it need maintenance to keep them working properly and prolong their lifespan. Here are some basic maintenance tips to help ensure your boat’s anchoring equipment works well and lasts long.
Keep Anchoring Equipment Clean and Lubed
Wash the anchor and rode with fresh water after every use to prevent corrosion and ensure everything operates efficiently.
Make sure you clean everything involved with anchoring a boat regularly to remove dirt, debris and saltwater residue, including:
- The anchor itself
- The anchor chain and/or anchor line
- The anchor windlass
Rinsing the chain and the anchor off after every use helps to remove salt and prevent rusting. You should also lubricate the anchor chain with marine grease for an added layer of protection against corrosion. Keep all moving parts clean and lubricated, including the anchor lift or winch.
Inspect Anchoring Equipment Regularly
Lay out the anchor rode once in a while to inspect it for corrosion and damage. If you’re using anchor rope, inspect it for fraying, breaks and overall stability.
For anchor chain, check the hardware to make sure the connections are free of corrosion and not at risk of breaking off. Inspect regularly for any loose or missing fasteners, and repair or replace these parts as needed. One way to keep the chain in good shape is to occasionally swap the ends so that one end of it isn’t absorbing all the punishment of being at the bottom end.
As for the anchor itself, inspect it often to make sure the shanks or flukes aren’t broken or bent, as this could cause the anchor not to grasp the sea floor. Rusty or muddy tips may be ineffective at digging into the bottom, and the shackles and swivels should be able to move freely so the anchor can do its job.
Also test the anchor windlass, including the motor, the safety features and controls to make sure it’s operating effectively. If the windlass uses a gearbox with oil in it, check the oil to make sure it’s not stale, and any oil seals to make sure they’re still good.
Store the Anchor Properly
Store the anchor and rode in a dry, well ventilated place to prevent mold and mildew, as well as any corrosion. Also, never leave the anchor submerged in water for extended periods of time.
Wash and dry the anchor thoroughly before storing it away, and make sure the anchor locker is clean and dry, with plenty of room to coil up the rode.
Keep Spare Anchoring Equipment
This isn’t a maintenance tip, just something we’re throwing in for good measure: always keep a spare anchor and rode on board in case anything gets stuck or snaps off and can’t be recovered.
These basic anchoring equipment maintenance tips can help ensure your boat’s anchoring operations go smoothly, safely and effectively, as well as protect the equipment you use.
