Cleaning Aluminum Tracker Boat Bottoms: A Step-By-Step Guide

Aluminum boats are one of the most common types of boats on the water, and they require regular cleaning and maintenance to keep them in good condition. Continuous use of boats can lead to the accumulation of dirt, saltwater residue, and exposure to polluted water or freshwater with algae, barnacles, and marine life, which can result in discoloration and harmful bacteria. Therefore, it is essential to clean the bottom of an aluminum tracker boat to improve fuel economy, smooth sailing, and the boat's overall performance.

Use a pressure washer

Using a pressure washer is a great way to clean the bottom of your aluminum tracker boat. It's an efficient method that can save you time and effort. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

Step 1: Prepare the Boat

After a day of sailing, bring your boat to land. It's important to clean your boat regularly, especially after exposure to saltwater, polluted water, or even just freshwater with algae or other organisms. These elements can cause discoloration and damage to your boat's hull, so regular cleaning is essential.

Step 2: Attach the Pressure Washer

Now, it's time to get your pressure washer ready. Attach the pressure washer soap nozzle to a garden hose. This setup will provide the necessary water flow and pressure to effectively clean your boat.

Step 3: Apply Biodegradable Car Soap

Spray the bottom of your boat with biodegradable car soap. This soap is an excellent choice as it is safe for the environment and won't cause harm to the surrounding water or wildlife. Let the soap sit for about 5 minutes. This will give it time to soak into any dirt or grime, making it easier to wash away. Make sure the soap doesn't dry, as this will only create more work for you!

Step 4: Pressure Wash the Boat

It's now time to put your pressure washer to use! Rinse the boat thoroughly from top to bottom. Pay close attention to the bottom of the boat, as this area is most susceptible to buildup and discoloration. The pressure washer will efficiently remove the soap and dirt, leaving your boat clean. Be sure to double-check that all detergent has been washed away and that the motor is flushed out.

Step 5: Dry and Inspect

After pressure washing, take a moment to dry off the boat with a soft towel or chamois. This will help prevent water spots and ensure your boat is ready for its next adventure. Once dried, take a moment to inspect the boat for any remaining dirt or stains. If necessary, you can repeat the pressure washing process or move on to a more intensive cleaning method, such as using an aluminum cleaning solution.

Remember, regular maintenance and cleaning of your aluminum tracker boat are essential to preserving its appearance and value. By following these steps and maintaining a consistent cleaning routine, you'll keep your boat in top condition and enjoy many more sailing adventures.

Use an aluminium cleaning solution

To clean the bottom of an aluminium tracker boat, you can use an aluminium cleaning solution. This is the most common and recommended method for cleaning aluminium boats.

Step 1: Prepare the solution

Before you begin, put on protective gloves, footwear, goggles, and clothing to protect yourself and your clothes from stains. Most aluminium cleaning solutions require a dilution of about 500 ml of aluminium cleaning solution and 1.5 to 2 litres of water.

Step 2: Scrub the hull

Dip your scrubber into the solution and start scrubbing the hull. For tougher patches, you may want to use a steel wool scrub. Always scrub along the grain of the aluminium to avoid leaving scratches.

Step 3: Address any rust

If you notice any rust, take care of it immediately to prevent it from spreading. Be careful not to scrub the rusty spot too hard, as the area may be weak.

Step 4: Let the solution set

After scrubbing the entire hull, check the instructions to see if the solution needs time to set into the metal layers.

Step 5: Rinse the boat

Thoroughly rinse the boat to wash out the chemicals, either immediately or after the required setting time.

Step 6: Buff and polish (optional)

If you want your boat to be a shiny attention-grabber, you may want to buff and polish it. Depending on the age and size of the boat, you will need to spend more or less time on this step. Use a buffing chamois and some buffing products to get a good shine, following the instructions on the product.

Step 7: Wax your boat

To maintain your boat's appearance and value, use boat wax at least once a year. Apply the wax one or two days after the boat has been cleaned and dried. Be sure to follow the instructions on the boat wax and avoid non-skid surfaces.

Some popular aluminium cleaning solutions include Fiberglass Cleaner, Toon-Brite, and Star Brite. Remember to only use these strong chemicals once or twice a year, as more frequent use could damage the hull.

Rinse with fresh water after each use

Rinsing your boat with fresh water after each use is essential, especially if your boat has been exposed to salt, polluted, or brackish water, or if you've been travelling over salty roads.

Rinsing your boat with fresh water after each trip is a simple yet effective way to maintain its appearance and protect its value. It's also a good way to prevent the buildup of dirt and grime, which can lead to discoloration, bacteria, and excess weight.

After hauling your boat onto its trailer, use a wet rag to wipe away any visible scum line around the hull waterline. Dried scum can be challenging to remove and may eventually stain the hull, so it's best to wipe it down right away.

If you're unable to rinse your boat with fresh water immediately after each use, try to do it as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the more difficult it will be to remove any dirt, salt, or scum buildup.

Additionally, if you've been boating in saltwater, rinsing with fresh water is crucial to prevent corrosion. Saltwater can be highly corrosive, and rinsing your boat will help to remove any salt residue that may remain.

By making it a habit to rinse your aluminum tracker boat with fresh water after each use, you'll not only keep it looking its best but also ensure its long-term performance and value.

Clean the interior

Now, we're venturing into the belly of the beast: the interior of your aluminum tracker boat. Remember, the outside might be the face of your boat, but the interior is its heart and soul.

First off, let's tackle the seating area. Here's where you'll be lounging after a long day of fishing. To clean your boat's seats:

• Vacuum any debris or dust.
• Use a gentle fabric or vinyl cleaner (depending on your seat material) to wipe down the seats. Always test in an inconspicuous area first.
• Wipe dry with a microfiber cloth.

Now, let's move on to the carpet. That floor of yours has seen more fish scales and muddy boots than an old fishing shack. Here's how you bring it back to life:

• Start with a good vacuuming.
• Apply a foam carpet cleaner, working in sections.
• Scrub gently with a brush to lift the stains.
• Rinse with clean water and a wet-vac or towel dry.

Finally, let's address the console and controls.

• Dust with a microfiber cloth, getting into all the nooks and crannies.
• Clean the surface with a damp cloth, using a solution of mild soap and water.
• Dry everything off to avoid water spots and potential damage.

Remember, cleaning your boat's interior is not a sprint, it's a marathon. Take your time, do it right, and your boat will shine and guide you towards many successful fishing trips.

• Boat Clean Plus: can be used as a general-purpose cleaner, it can be diluted and used as a boat wash, it’s excellent for cleaning vinyl seats and shampooing the carpet as well.
• Vinyl Guard: will give your seats great protection against UV rays, suntan oil, fish bait, and food and beverage spills.
• Kwik Shine: great for cleaning and polishing the hull, both painted and raw aluminum.
• VS721: will protect your hull from marine growth and reduce drag, giving you better performance and top speed, as well as reducing fuel consumption.

Use eco-friendly products

Aluminum boats are prone to losing their shine and accumulating dirt on their hulls after continuous use. The hull is constantly exposed to saltwater, polluted water, or freshwater, which contain algae, marine life, and barnacles. These organisms attach themselves to the hull, resulting in discoloration and harmful bacteria penetrating the hull. Therefore, it is essential to clean your aluminum tracker boat regularly.

Using eco-friendly products to clean your boat is essential to protect the environment and ensure that our beautiful waterways stay clean and enjoyable for everyone. Here are some tips for choosing eco-friendly products and practices for cleaning your aluminum tracker boat:

Choose Eco-Friendly Products

Avoid harsh chemicals and opt for biodegradable, non-toxic, or phosphate-free products. Look for boat washes specifically designed for aluminum boats, mild soap for interiors, and fabric or vinyl cleaners for seats. You can also use natural alternatives like vinegar mixed with water for windows and a paste of baking soda and water for metal fixtures.

Responsible Cleaning Practices

Contain your runoff by cleaning your boat on land and properly disposing of the waste. Wash sparingly to reduce the potential release of contaminants into the water. Instead, keep your boat clean with regular wipe-downs, and only use heavy-duty washes when necessary. Properly dispose of any leftover cleaners, oils, or chemicals at a waste disposal facility.

Maintain Your Boat

Regular maintenance can reduce the need for heavy-duty cleanings. Conduct regular check-ups to identify issues early on and take preventive measures, such as using boat wax, to prevent dirt buildup. Cover your boat when not in use to keep it clean and reduce the need for frequent washing.

Frequently asked questions