Top 5 Features to Look for in a Boat Engine Cover
Your boat engine is the heart of your boat, and protecting it is crucial for performance, longevity, and reliability. Sun, rain, and even salt can cause havoc on the motor if it is left uncovered. That is where a good engine cover comes in. It is like a shield that keeps your engine safe from various environmental hazards, allowing the boat to last longer.
The boat engine cover is more than just a simple tool, as it protects the boat against UV rays that generally cause cracks. It keeps the water out to prevent rust and blocks dirt from getting into the delicate machinery of the boat. Moreover, it saves you from spending a bank on additional repairs, hence saving you money in the long run.
Top 5 Features to Look for in a Boat Engine Cover
When choosing the right boat engine cover, there are a few essential features that every boat owner should know about. Let’s get into the five must-haves for every boat owner to ensure their boat engine cover:
Material Durability and Weather Resistance
Your boat engine cover should be weather-tough. Look for materials like marine-grade polyester or heavy-duty canvas, which are UV, water, and abrasion-resistant. These materials are designed to fight the harsh marine environment. This will protect your engine from the sun rays, saltwater corrosion, and heavy rain.
Perfect Fit for Your Engine
Fit is the key as a boat engine cover that stays loose can blow off in the wind, or a sunbrella cover that is too tight can be hard to put on the engine. To tackle this, custom covers are made with adjustable straps that will give your outboard motor engine cover a snug and secure fit. This will keep your engine completely protected from dust, debris, and moisture, all while being easy to use.
Also Read: Custom Boat Covers Near Me: The Benefits of Going Custom vs. Off-the-Shelf
Ventilation and Breathability
A breathable boat engine cover is very essential for the health of the engine. Ventilation panels prevent moisture from building up under the sunbrella cover. This reduces the risk of mold, mildew, and rust harming the boat's engine. These engine covers allow the airflow and keep the engine dry and free from condensation, especially after a long day on the water.
Reinforced Seams and Stronger Design
Always Look for boat engine cover hinges and heavy-duty stitching to withstand high winds and heavy use. Added padding in high-stress areas will also protect your engine from bumps or impacts when you’re moving in the water.
Easy to Clean and Store
A boat engine cover should be easy to clean and maintain. Materials that dry quickly or are machine-washable make maintenance a straightforward task. Plus, a lightweight sunbrella cover that folds up into a storage bag so you can store them away when they are not in use.
Avoid These Costly Mistakes When Choosing a Boat Engine Cover
Your boat engine cover is more than just a piece of fabric for your boat. It is the first line of defense against harmful elements. Even seasoned boaters can make big mistakes when choosing the right boat engine cover. Here is the list of common mistakes for you to avoid
Ignoring Measurements
A poor-fitting cover engine is as good as no cover at all for your precious boat. An oversized cover flaps in the wind and lets the dirt and debris in the engine. While a tight one might tear or be impossible to secure the engine properly. Measurements are non-negotiable when choosing the right boat engine cover. Always double-check the dimensions of your engine, including any bumps like controls or props before you buy.
Also Read: How to Choose the Right Cover: Protecting Your Cover for outboard engine
Overlooking Ventilation: The Silent Killer
Trapped moisture is a breeding ground for harmful elements like mold, mildew, and rust. Many boat owners focus on waterproofing but forget that proper airflow is just as important, if not less. Look for boat covers with built-in vents or breathable materials that prevent condensation buildup in the internals of the boat.
Choosing the Wrong Material: Know Your Climate
The material you choose for your boat cover must match the environment where the boat is placed. Vinyl material may be waterproof but struggles in extreme heat conditions, while canvas is breathable but may not be durable in harsh saltwater conditions of the marine. Check your local weather and the specific challenges your engine faces, then choose marine-grade fabrics like UV-resistant polyester for all-around protection of your boat engine.
Also Read: Boat Motor Covers: What You Need to Know Before You Buy
Only Focusing on Price: A False Economy
A cheap cover may seem like a good deal, but it will cost you a lot in the long run. Low-quality materials wear out much faster, fail in harsh conditions, and leave your engine exposed to the environment. While the budget is real, think of a good cover as an investment. Spending a bit more on the boat's engine cover will be a better option, as you will be saving yourself from thousands of future repair costs, and will extend the life of your boat.
Conclusion
Your boat works hard for you to keep your adventures afloat, and it deserves nothing less than the best protection. Investing in the right cover engine should be more of a need for every boat owner than a want. It is all about securing performance, extending the lifespan of the engine, and safeguarding your investment from the relentless forces of nature.
You can weatherproof your boat engine, and enjoy the peace of mind every time you hit the water by choosing a durable, snug, and breathable cover. Let your engine thrive under the shelter of a safe boat cover, by avoiding the pitfalls of poor materials, improper fit, and low-quality boat engine cover alternatives.
For the best boat engine boat cover, visit Inner Banks Canvas Company to make your boat engine long-lasting.
FAQs
Why do people put covers on outboard motors?
People use covers on outboard motors to protect them from UV rays, rain, salt, dirt, and debris. This prevents rust, corrosion, and cracks and extends the life of the engine.
Should you cover your boat engine?
Yes, covering your boat engine is key to protecting it from the elements, reducing maintenance costs, and maintaining performance and durability.
Should you fog your boat engine?
Yes, fogging your boat engine is recommended, especially before long-term storage like winter to prevent internal corrosion and keep the engine healthy.
Do I need an outboard cover?
Yes, an outboard cover is necessary to protect your engine from wear and tear from sun, rain, saltwater, and debris. It’s an investment worth making to extend the life of the engine.
Should outboard motors be covered in winter?
Yes, cover your outboard in winter to prevent moisture buildup, freezing, and rust when not in use. Choose a breathable cover.
