Purpose

This boat repair inspection checklist helps yacht owners verify completed mechanical, electrical, and structural repairs before signing acceptance with the contractor. It outlines what to check, visual signs of quality, and immediate actions if poor workmanship is found. Based on ABYC standards and South Florida repair practice.

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1. Dockside Inspection

Perform these checks together with the specialist before payment.

• Engine room and bilges must be clean, dry, and odor‑free.
• Hoses tight and double‑clamped; strainers sealed and clean.
• Wiring labeled, corrosion‑free, no loose terminals.
• Navigation lights, pumps, and alarms tested under power.
  Red flags: oil film, damp hose joints, fuel smell, wire ends without labeling.
  Action: stop acceptance, photograph area, add note to work order.

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2. Propulsion and Steering

Inspect alignment, prop condition, rudder bearings, and steering response before and after a short sea trial.

• Propellers smooth, no dents; shafts aligned, anodes >50%.
• Hydraulic steering dry and smooth; helm play minimal.
  Red flags: vibration, leaks at rams, creamy gear oil, or helm binding.
  Action: require alignment or seal re‑check before sign‑off.

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3. Fuel, Cooling, Exhaust

• Check fuel hoses (rated and dated), double clamps on all fittings.
• Inspect strainers, replace impeller if over 300 hours.
• Confirm manifolds and exhaust joints dry after sea trial.
  Red flags: wet joints or salt crusts, discolored coolant, fuel odor.
  Action: document defect, request re‑run after correction.

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4. Electrical Systems

• Battery terminals tight and clean; breakers labeled.
• Test bilge alarms, navigation lights, smoke and CO detectors.
• Verify stable voltage shore and engine charging.
  Red flags: flickering lights, unstable charge, corroded lugs.
  Action: re‑torque terminals, re‑test detection systems, note issues on the checklist.

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5. Hull and Through‑Hull Fittings

• Inspect deck fittings, seacocks, and hatches for water trails or loose sealant.
• Cycle seacocks; handles move freely; clamps stainless and snug.
  Red flags: trickle leaks after launch, green corrosion tracks.
  Action: reseal or re‑bed hardware before closing job.

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6. Documentation Package

Collect before full payment:

• Work order with replaced parts and serial numbers.
• Sea‑trial results (RPM, temperatures).
• Photos showing repaired zones and dry connections.
  Reason: supports warranty claims and resale documentation.

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7. Defect Protocol

If any abnormal readings, leaks, or noise appear:

1. Pause acceptance.
2. Annotate failed items on the checklist.
3. Notify contractor and repeat relevant tests.
4. Verify correction under same conditions.

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Acceptance Summary Table

Area	Key Checkpoints	Accept Condition	Red Flags
Propulsion	Props, shafts, seals	No vibration, dry	Leaks, creamy oil
Fuel/Cooling	Hoses, clamps, temps	Dry, correct pressure	Fuel odor, seepage
Electrical	Batteries, lights	Stable voltage	Flicker, corrosion
Steering	Rams, helm	Smooth, no play	Leak, stiffness
Hull/Fittings	Deck joints, seacocks	Dry after run	Water trails

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FAQ