Wakeboards have gone through some major changes in the last thirty years, from board shape to technique to the bindings on the board, and today we’re going to talk about those wakeboard bindings in detail. When wakeboarding first started, the bindings were sandal style, in that they resembled, yes, sandals. Sandal bindings are rarely used today, they are more hard to find, as they don’t offer much support for the ankles and legs, leaving them vulnerable to the risk of twisting, which can lead to fractures.

Since the development of the sandal style bindings, a veritable avalanche of new styles, materials and colors have helped to bring forward an endless diversification of bindings for today’s discerning wakeboarder. Double wrap bindings eventually gave way to plateless bindings, followed by closed toe bindings. Today’s top brands like Ronix, Hyperlite, Liquid Force and Slingshot, continue to push the envelope of inovation, most notably Hyperlite with the introduction of a separate boot bindings setup, known as system bindings.

These boot-type enclosures have lace or velcro straps for you to tighten up, and the bindings ideally will give no heel or toe lift, for a solid yet forgiving stance. There are systems that allow for endless stance adjustment at the drop of a hat, and systems that employ advanced plate placement for riding full forward or far backward on the board. Getting in and out of your bindings is the number one cause of wear and tear on bindings, so finding a system that enables you to do this easily is a plus.

There are closed and open toe boots available on the market, but the most important thing for a rider is support and safety for your skill level. Your weight, shoe size, riding level, riding style and personal preference are all things that help to decide what type of wakeboard binding is best for you.

Marine Products has the best equipment made by the hottest brands at the most competitive prices. Our staff is committed to guiding you in gearing up for the best wakeboarding rides of a lifetime.

About Bilge Blowers

The bilge unit is installed on the engine at the boat’s stern. The mechanism features fans that draw the waste fumes from the engine to keep it clean and safe. In addition, the device will have a separate activation switch that the installer or manufacturer will wire to the boat’s switchboard.

Installation Tips

After purchasing a bilge kit, select a secure mounting area on the boat’s transverse beam or to the deck’s base. Before attaching the device, measure the deck area to determine the amount of flexible duct required to connect the blower section to the outflow end. Also, measure the inflow area to calculate the length of flexible duct needed to attach the inflow section to the area where the hose passes into the bilge unit. Be sure to bring wire cutters to cut the duct length. Furthermore, check the bottom hose to ensure that it is away from the sump area as it should lie over the stringers.

Bilge unit installers will need a drill and a small bit to create mounting holes for the blower support section. Drill the holes in the deck or transverse beam. Don’t forget to check the flow arrow on the bilge device to make sure that it is facing the exhaust section. With a screwdriver, attach the mounting bracket with two galvanized screws. The next step is to secure the upper duct section to the exhaust. Also, use a tie strap to attach the bottom hose to the bilge unit’s motor neck.

To create the bilge unit’s activation switch, run a section of 16-gauge wire from the boat battery’s negative terminal to a convenient area on the vessel’s dashboard. Installers will need wire strippers to create the correct length and to add a second wire from the positive battery terminal. The next step is to connect the dashboard switch plate by creating bracket holes with a drill. After forming the holes, twist the wires from the battery’s positive and negative terminals, and attach an eyelet to the end of each one. To connect the battery, attach a battery cable nut to each wire and tighten it with a socket. Also, run the wires to the switch, and with an eyelet, create the connection. Be sure to run the negative wire to the negative switch terminal. Additionally, connect the positive wire to the positive switch terminal.

Responsible vessel owners will make sure that their boat has a bilge blower for the safety of their passengers and to prevent damage to their boat.

Weight Rating of the Trailer

The first step is to determine the gross weight of your vessel. Ensure that this amount includes the weight of your motor. The next factor to evaluate is the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the trailer. This is the upper limit that the trailer can carry. According to boating industry sources, the weight of the watercraft should not surpass 85% of the trailer’s GVWR. This ensures that the trailer has the capacity to carry the full weight of the boat, accessories and equipment that you may have onboard without putting undo strain on trailer parts, such as the hitch, axles and wheels.

Other Trailer Characteristics

Contact your state Department of Motor Vehicles for information on the regulations governing the use of brakes on a trailer. Generally, brakes are required for boat trailers with a GVWR of 3,000 pounds, but some states mandate brakes for trailers with a 1,000 GVWR. Many manufacturers equip trailers with hydraulic brakes because they can withstand damp environments better than electric brakes. Like the brakes on your tow vehicle, these hydraulic brakes require professional maintenance.

For larger boats, you should consider purchasing a trailer with tandem axles. The additional tires and axles help support the weight of the boat, which is beneficial during tire blowouts. It also reduces the risk of fishtailing and rollovers. A properly sized trailer eliminates overhang while sufficiently accommodating the watercraft’s propulsion unit.

Vehicle Towing Capacity

The towing capacity of your vehicle is listed on a label affixed to the inside frame of the driver’s side door. Your vehicle can tow this total weight without experiencing engine or transmission problems. You must match the trailer to the boat and then the tow vehicle to the boat and trailer combination. If the boat and trailer weigh more than the maximum tow rating, you will need a more powerful vehicle.

Launching and Recovery Technique

The trailer should match the method that you use to launch and recover your boat from the water. If you launch the boat in deep water at a boat ramp, you can select a bunk model trailer. This model is designed for you to float the vessel over the trailer. A roller model is needed if you launch and recover in shallow water and must drive the boat up onto the trailer.

The right boat trailer makes transporting your boat safer and easier. It also ensures safe operation as you travel down the road without over taxing the tow vehicle. The right trailer also makes loading and unloading the boat less time consuming, which enables you to enjoy more time on the water.

1.) Before you even think of leaving, inspect your boat for any cracks, fuel build-up, and make sure to test and clean all pumps.

2.) Make sure that everyone on board has a U.S. Coast Guard approved PFD (Personal Flotation Device) that is appropriate for their height and weight and fits them snugly. In addition to the PFDs for your guests and yourself, make sure you have two extras on board.

3.) That plastic, pink and yellow dotted googly-eyed, blow-up dragon makes a great novelty, but does not count as a regulation flotation device! Real PFDs are for saving lives. Marine-products.com has life safety devices and an unparalleled selection of great supplies for all of your boating needs.

4.) Get the weather forecast before heading out on the high seas, and by all means, make sure your radio is ready to receive any new weather updates or warnings.

5.) Make sure your craft has the required number of fire extinguishers on board, check to see that their mounts are secure, and point them out to your guests before take off.

6.) Nearly all recorded boat fatalities were caused by deficiencies in the boat operator’s knowledge and skill. Contact your local U.S. Coast Guard to find inexpensive and even free boat safety courses and classes. Even a refresher course can save you from accidents, or even tragedy.

7.) Make sure you know the boat traffic laws in your state, you don’t want to put anyone in danger or be fined or have your license revoked just because you didn’t know the rules.

8.) An aquaholic is such a drag on a boat (ugh, what a horrible pun) but seriously, drunk boating is one of the main culprits of boating accidents. Be awake and aware when boating, captain.

9.) Keep your boat’s papers available at all times. Any permits, licenses and vessel requirements should be kept in a waterproof envelope or box on board.

10.) Don’t overload your boat, it could tip over, or it won’t float and you’ll have a hull of a problem.

Tips for Fuel System Maintenance

A boat’s engine requires clean fuel to run properly. Before adding fuel to their boat, owners can assess the substance by pouring a small amount into a transparent jar. They should then allow it to sit for several hours. If debris or contaminants are present, then they’ll sink to the jar’s bottom. When fuel is dirty, boat owners can filter it before adding it to their boat’s motor. An estimated 90% of engine problems occur because of dirty fuel.

Water in the Fuel System

A small amount of water will not affect boats that run on unleaded gas. However, it can destroy a diesel motor. Even when boat owners have a water filter to separate the water from the fuel, it will not be able to do its job when it’s clogged. Therefore, check the filter regularly. Water can enter the tank in several other ways. For example, it can come from a loose fill cap. Remember to inspect the part to ensure that it is tight. Also, be aware that condensation can build up in the fuel tank. To prevent condensation, keep the tank as full as possible. When owners store their boat, it is especially important for them to keep the tank full.

Sediment will settle into the bottom of the fuel tank over time. To avoid this situation, boat owners should inspect their fuel at the start of each boating season by siphoning out a small portion near the bottom. If sediment is present, then drain the remaining fuel and refill the tank with clean fuel.

When boat owners replace the fuel lines, they can choose metal or rubber material. Metal lines will last longer, but they have very little give, and as a result, they may break. Rubber hoses can handle more engine vibration and shifting. However, they can become brittle with age. Be sure to check the owner’s manual to confirm the right size and model.

How to Change a Fuel Filter

To reach the fuel filter, boat owners will first need to remove the vessel’s battery. Some
motors may feature a secondary filter. To change the cleaning mechanism, detach the hose clamps and remove the device. The boat owner can then connect a new filter.

Boat owners will locate the primary filter between the fuel pump and the tank. Owners can use a fuel wrench to remove the part. Place a pan underneath the filter to catch spare fuel drippings. Before installing the new filter, lubricate the O-ring to create a tight seal.

Conclusion

When boat owners maintain their vessel’s fuel system regularly, they will likely reduce repairs and extend the lifespan of the boat’s engine.

Fuel System

Check the vessel’s fuel system for damage or leaks. Also, look closely at the fuel hoses, tank surfaces and connectors. Boaters can determine fuel hose weakness or damage by feeling the part for softness, fractures or brittleness. When boaters discover fuel hose weaknesses or damage, they should replace the sections. Also, before taking the vessel onto the water, secure the fixtures and clamps. Assess the watercraft’s ventilation systems, engine and exhaust.

Hoses, Cables and Belts

Since a boat’s hoses, cables and belts can become frail, be sure to check them before taking the vessel out for a summer afternoon. Furthermore, belts should attach firmly to the watercraft’s pulleys to avoid slipping. If a black material is around the pulley, then the part is worn, and it will not provide a secure attachment. Cracks and distensions are other signs of wear.

Electrical System

Inspect the electrical components for tight attachments and cleanliness. If boaters spot corrosion, then the area may require cleaning. To remove corrosion, detach the components and use a wire brush to eliminate rust and erosion. Check the battery to confirm that it has a charge. Boaters may consider hiring an authorized electrician to inspect the vessel’s wiring.

Safety Equipment

Before taking the vessel out of the harbor, verify that the watercraft’s lifejackets are in good condition and that there are enough for every passenger. The lifejackets must be properly sized for each person onboard the vessel. Assess the vessel’s fire extinguishers to ensure that they are the right size for the watercraft. Fire extinguishers must also be stored in the right places.

Fluids

Inspect the boat’s fluid levels, which will include the engine oil, power trim tank, coolant and power steering. If the fluids were not changed during the winterizing of the vessel, then be sure to replace them before using the watercraft in the summer.

The Propeller and the Hull

Boaters should examine the propellers for dents, pitting, fractures and deformities. When a vessel runs with a damaged propeller, it can cause ride vibration and additional damage to the watercraft’s drive train. Also, inspect each propeller’s attachment to make sure that they are secured. Review the propeller’s bearings and replace them if they are showing signs of wear. Clean the top section, hull and deck of the boat. Also, be sure to inspect the drain plug to confirm that it is working properly, and make sure that it is firmly in place before every water adventure.

Conclusion

Be sure to refer to the owner’s manual before completing maintenance. Furthermore, when boaters complete regular maintenance on their vessel, they’ll avoid potential problems and increase the longevity of their recreational watercraft.

There are some people who say that wakeboarding has left water skiing “in it’s wake”, but while “skurfing”, as it used to be called, is a big hit, water skiing is still in demand. Water skiing is now over ninety years old and while it’s got classic moves and maneuvers, new generations of water skiers are always coming up with innovative ways to push the sport into the future.

The physics of watching water ski jumps and stunts are just as breathtaking as ever, with freestyle moves like flips, gainers and the impressive 360º möbius backflip winning fans everywhere. And anyone who remembers Esther Williams and water ski acrobatics would practically faint today, watching a record-breaking 43 skiers forming a pyramid on the water in 2003! To date, no one has been able to top 48 skiers, but if things keep progressing as they have, it won’t be long before it’s a reality.

It’s easy to catch the water skiing bug. Places like Austin, Texas, Seattle, Washington or West Palm Beach in Florida, are fantastic places to eat, drink, and breathe water skiing! Water skiing tournaments and championships are county wide, national and even world wide. From racing, to show and slalom skiing, there are events for every predilection.

Visiting your local boat retailer is a good way to get started with classes, they often know who’s who in the local water skiing scene. We want to encourage all prospective and practicing water skiers to ski smartly and safely. Learn how to use hand signals, learn about specific obstacles or things to look out for on specific bodies of water, only ski in good lighting with good weather conditions.

Whether you are new to water skiing or have been doing it for years, Marine Products carries all the best water skiing equipment from top water skiing brands like; Radar Water Skis, HO Skis, & Connelly Water Skis, that you will need to get started or help you with an upgrade to your current gear.

History of Waterskiing from Cigalert on Vimeo.

Stay afloat and safe on your boat!

When you’re out on the water with the wind whipping through your hair, it’s easy to get caught up in the moment and forget about boating safety. Although safety habits may seem like a drag on your fun,  accidents can happen in an instant. By adhering to basic boating safety standards, you and your passengers can safely enjoy your boating trips.

Use Flotation Devices

Wearing a personal flotation device, or PFD, is the most basic rule of boating safety. Failure to wear a PFD greatly increases your risk of injury during a boating accident. Although adults are not legally required to wear them,  this device can help keep you afloat while you wait for help if you fall in the water. Many PFDs are designed to keep your head above water, even if you’re injured or unconscious. Today’s flotation devices  are slim and come in a wide variety of styles and colors; you don’t have to bury yourself in a bulky and ill-fitting life jacket to stay safe.

Take a Safety Course

Before you set out on the water for the first time, it is a good idea to take a boating safety class. This class will cover a number of subjects, from proper PFD usage to the rules of the water in your local area. Follow these rules strictly while you boat – safe boating rests on the foundation of a shared code of conduct, and if you deviate from that code, you place yourself and any nearby vessels at risk. These rules cover common boating situations, such as passing another vessel, following another vessel or avoiding collisions with others. Always yield the right of way to vessels with impaired mobility; if you find yourself in the path of one of these vessels, it’s your responsibility to avoid a collision.

Don’t Drink and Boat

When you’re planning your day on the water, leave alcohol out of the equation. According to the Coast Guard, you’re 10 times more likely to be injured in a boating accident if you’re intoxicated while operating your boat. Alcohol impairs your judgment, and the rhythmic swaying of your boat can upset your balance.

Create a Float Plan

Before you leave the dock, leave a float plan with someone you trust. Include basic information about your voyage, including your destinations and your expected arrival dates. Check in with the holder of your float plan regularly. If something does happen to you while you’re boating, your float plan will give rescuers a good idea of where to begin looking for you.

Maintain Your Boat

Spend the time and money to keep your boat in good condition. A well-maintained boat is a safe boat. Inspect each of the components of your boat, including the engine, batteries and hull, before you head out on each voyage. If you notice something wrong with your boat, have it repaired before you go on your next voyage. Check the charge on your batteries, especially if you’ve kept your boat in storage recently. If your battery dies while you’re on the water, vital components may not work; the loss of your radio, navigation system or other instruments could put you and your passengers in serious trouble.

Performing regular maintenance on your boat will ensure that your investment survives through years of difficult waters and unexpected weather. Good maintenance begins with a thorough and regular cleaning routine, including waxing and polishing. In addition, you must complete some general tasks, such as inspecting your vessel regularly.

Wash Your Vessel

Washing your watercraft is the first part of a good maintenance routine. Always use fresh water to clean your vessel’s exterior. If you primarily use your vessel in saltwater, you need to be especially diligent in removing the harmful salt residue from your boat’s integral components. Use a sponge and plenty of soap to clear the grime from your boat. After you’ve finished washing, use an absorbent cloth to dry your vessel. Once the hull has dried, you can use polish to remove minor imperfections from your vessel’s exterior. Follow your polishing with a thorough coat of wax to protect your vessel from the elements. You should polish and wax your vessel at least twice during the boating season.

Inspect Your Vessel

Before you leave the dock, you should spend a few minutes performing a routine inspection of your watercraft. First, check to see if your navigation and instrument lights are working properly. Next, take a look at your bilge to see if it is dry. If you notice a leak, you will need to investigate and repair it right away. Don’t forget to check your fuel levels. Depending on the length of your trip, you may need to bring additional fuel to ensure that your vessel can operate for the duration of your trip. Finally, check the oil and coolant levels in your engine before you depart.

Seasonal Maintenance

As the boating season draws to a close, you will need to prepare your vessel for the upcoming winter. Without proper seasonal maintenance, you may find yourself with a long list of problems to fix when the next boating season arrives. Start your routine by giving your watercraft one final wash. Remove any plant material or other debris that you find stuck to the exterior and the propeller. Finish up your cleaning session with another coat of polish and wax. Next, change the oil and filters in your engine. Finally, top off your vessel’s fuel to avoid condensation during the winter.

You will need to choose a storage facility for your watercraft before winter arrives. If you leave your watercraft in the water without taking precautions, the hull may suffer damage from ice. In some cases, removing the vessel from the water, covering it and storing it outside may be a better option. If you want more protection for your watercraft, try to free up some space in your garage. If your garage isn’t large enough to house the vessel, invest in self-storage at a nearby marina.

Avoid Reckless Behavior

Your behavior while boating can affect the longevity of your watercraft. If you push your watercraft past its intended operating parameters, you may harm your vessel. Read your vessel’s manual to better understand the limits of your watercraft. When you’re out on open waters, always adhere to general safety guidelines to avoid crashing into objects and other vessels.

A bilge pump eliminates water from the hull of a boat. Because fuel may be mixed in the bilge water, pump manufacturers construct the device to start without a spark for boater safety. The water-siphoning mechanism must be powerful enough to remove water from the hull vertically. Furthermore, accurate installation is imperative for the product to work correctly.

Pump Location

Smart boat owners will install at least two pumps to prevent the boat from sinking if the primary pump fails. Place the primary pump at the bilge’s lowest point and set the backup pump higher. The higher placement prevents debris clogs, which is a frequent occurrence.

Bilge Pump Recommendations

Before boaters install a pump, they will need to consider the device’s capacity and the number of units that their vessel may require. The pump number is critical since the device frequently fails if submerged in water. Therefore, boaters can determine the proper pump system based upon the vessel’s size. For instance, boats that measure 16 to 20 feet should have two pumps installed that can remove an estimated 2500 gallons of water per hour. Larger vessels that are from 21 to 26 feet long should also have at least two pumps. However, boat owners of vessels that measure from 21 to 26 feet long will want water-siphoning units that can remove 3000 to 3500 gallons per hour or GPH. When a boat measures 60 feet or more in length, be sure to install four or five pumps that can eliminate at least 10,000 GPH.

Boat Hulls

Boat owners should also review the number of compartments that their boat contains. Keep in mind that hulls frequently have different features. Therefore, boaters must review their vessel to determine the type of pump system that they need. Before adding the bilge pumps, check the hull’s separate compartments to confirm pump placement. In addition, review the boat’s hull dividers, such as the high floor frames and bulkheads, which prevent water from moving between the hull’s different sections. Each compartment that does not permit the flow of water to other hull areas will need a pump. If the boater chooses not to add a pump, then flooding water can cause immense damage to the hull. Boat owners with smaller vessels should be especially cautious since they sink more often than larger boats due to shallow bilge areas.

Bilge Pumps for Outboard and Stern Drive Boats

Since outboard and stern drive boats have heavy engines, they require pumping systems with at least two water-siphoning units. Once water enters the bilge area, it can sink the boat very easily.

Bilge Pump Sizes

Boaters should avoid small 4-inch bilge pumps because they don’t have enough power to pump water vertically. Instead, purchase at least a 1500 or 2000 power pump. If the pump must move water upward by 3 or 4 feet, then consider buying a pump with even more power.