Trouble guides 9 guides
Trouble guides
Each guide starts with what to do first, lists only checks an owner can do without opening fuel, propane, AC electrical or below-waterline fittings, and ends with when to call a certified marine technician. Free to read, no account needed.
Danger to life or the boat? Call 911 or the U.S. Coast Guard on VHF Channel 16 first.
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01
I smell gasoline, or see fuel in the bilge
Fuel vapour can explode. What to do first, what to look at, and why this one goes to a technician.
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02
I smell propane (LPG) in the galley
No flames, shut the gas off at the cylinder if you safely can, air the boat out, and have the system tested before using it again.
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03
The carbon monoxide alarm went off, or someone feels sick aboard
CO poisoning looks like seasickness. Fresh air first, then find the cause.
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04
Inboard engine will not crank
Nothing happens, or just a click, when you turn the key. The owner-level checks, in a safe order.
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05
Outboard will not start
The checks owners can do at the helm and the tank, before anyone opens the cowling.
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06
The bilge pump keeps running
Either water is getting in, or the switch is stuck. Find out which, fast.
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07
Shore power keeps tripping
A breaker or ground-fault device that keeps tripping is protecting someone. Do not defeat it.
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08
Engine overheat alarm
Slow down, find out whether cooling water is flowing, and do not open a hot system.
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09
The battery was flat in the morning
Usually a load left on or a charger that is not charging. Sometimes it is the bilge pump telling you something.