Expert Marine consultant Jamie D invites you to get personal with your outboard. Take the hood off your outboard and learn about the vital parts that keep you safe and moving on the water. Make sure to check oil and connections.

Expert Marine consultant Jamie D shows the 2 important functions of the often misunderstood sacrificial anode on the outboard engine, as well as what you need to do to keep this important part in perfect operational shape to save your outboard from corrosion.

Expert Marine consultant Jamie D explains the importance of keeping your outboard propellers in tip top shape. Learn how to maintain your sportsfishing or recreational vessel with some simple and easy to do tips.

I had a very interested conversation with a seasoned boater last week RE the need for marine communications on to days boats. This boaters view, I have learned, is the same opinion of many recreational boaters on the water today. The controversy is over the need and the use of the VHF radio or ship to shore radio which has been the main source of communication for boaters for the past 40 years.

The VHF radio is used to talk to other boaters, marina's and to call for help from agencies like the Coast Guard. Many boaters feel cell phones are more reliable and are easier to use and ultimately have made the VHF radio obsolete. Well I have news for everyone boating today, the VHF is still very much alive and very much needed.

Lets first take a look at how the VHF radio works and why it is so important. VHF frequency range for marine purposes is between 156 to 174 MHz. It mostly uses a "simplex" transmission style where communication can only take place in one direction at a time. This type of transmission is the same used in aviation, fire and rescue departments and our national security. It is far more reliable and allows the person talking to be heard uninterrupted by other transmissions. The VHF radio has only three major components. The radio, antenna and the coax. It is a very simple system and utilizes very little in the way of moving parts and things to break.

For most of us our boats have been quietly taking a long winters nap awaiting warm sunshine and the summer days ahead. Several things should be considered before turning the key and starting your season.

Batteries are often the most overlooked items we have on a boat. They stay in dark covered areas usually located near the stern of the boat and are mostly covered with a black plastic splash proof box. Out of site out of mind is generally the treatment batteries receive yet without this one critical component your day of fun will quickly become a day filled with aggravation.

First open the black splash proof box and get familiar with your battery. Locate the positive (red) lead and negative (black) lead and see how they are connected. This is a great time to figure out what wrench fits the nut that holds the leads in place. Coat the wrench with silicone spray and store in a zip lock baggie. This should be one of your essential tools kept on the boat at all times.

Second check for corrosion build up around the leads. Corrosion is inherent with boats that are used in fresh and salt water and a constant check should be done several times a year. Loosen the nuts holding the leads to the battery terminals and apply a thin coat of waterproof grease to this area then retighten.