Boater's Quiz - Life Expectancies

If you thought the cost of owning a boat is all in the purchase price, the first year can come as a shock. How long things last depends on how your boat is used, but there are some rules of thumb. Before you go back into the water, are you being realistic about average replacement cycles for key items? Compare your estimates with the pros. And notice we've hedged some answers.

1. Oil
a. 50 hours
b. 1 year
c. Whichever comes first

2. Battery
a. 1 year
b. 2-3 years
c. 5 years

3. Spark plugs
a. 1 year
b. 2 years
c. 3-5 years

4. Bottom paint
a. 1 year
b. 2-3 years
c. Depends on paint and conditions
of use

5. Hull paint (Wood)
a. 1 year
b. 2 years
c. 5 years

6. Lifesaving gear
a. 5 years
b. 10 years
c. Forever

7. Fire extinguishers
a. 1 year
b. 3 years
c. Depend on gauge readings

8. Drain plugs
a. 2 years for rubber
b. 3 years for plastic
c. 3 or more years for bronze

9. Seals on prop shaft and water pump
a. 1 year
b. 3 year
c. Only if you find water

10. Thermostat
a. 1 year
b. 2 years
c. Forever

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