Maintaining an inboard boat is essential to ensure its longevity and performance. Here are some recommended maintenance tips for an inboard boat:

1. Break-in Period: All inboard motors, regardless of brand, will recommend a break-in period. This will ensure the longevity of the motor over the years. Inboard motor manufacturers recommend breaking your engine in for a determined number of hours.

2. Regular Maintenance: Just like a car, your boat is going to need some love. Things like oil and fluid changes, inspections, and updates are needed to keep your boat in the best shape. Routine maintenance is necessary to maintain the same performance throughout the boats life.

3. Oil Change: Oil changes for an inboard boat will be needed every 50 hours. For most families, this can be an annual service. According to, oil changing is recommended every 100 hours.

4. Battery Replacement: It is recommended that batteries be replaced every 2-5 years, depending on circumstances.

5. Bellows Replacement: Be sure to keep your eye on the bellows because if it cracks and allows water in your boat, it will sink. It is recommended to change the bellows every 3 years.

6. Annual Service: Follow the service schedule outlined in your marine engine owner’s manual. Most outboard, sterndrive, and gasoline inboard engines require basic service every 100 hours or annually. This basic service will include an oil-and-filter change (for four-stroke engines), changing the gearcase lubricant in outboard and sterndrive engines, changing the fuel filter element, and perhaps installing fresh spark plugs.

7. Cooling System Flushing: If you will be storing the boat in a climate with below-freezing temperatures, a sterndrive or inboard engine will need to have its cooling system flushed with antifreeze. This expels all of the fresh water from the cooling system, which could cause damage if it freezes.

By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure that your inboard boat remains in good condition and performs well for years to come.