How-To DIY

With all the fun a boat brings, it still requires a good bit of work to keep it seaworthy, safe, and running properly. The experts at BoatUS Magazine show you how to do common boat projects, maintenance, and repairs to save you money and give you the satisfaction of doing it yourself. Whether you need to know how to change the oil in your sterndrive’s lower unit, replace the fuel filter on a diesel inboard, restoring an outboard, time-saving tips & techniques, running new electrical wiring, spring fitting out, or winterizing your boat, you’ll find it here.

backup-hero

Double Duty

Double Duty
trailer-jack-hero

Hit The Road, Jack

While the jack that came with your boat trailer works OK, here's why you might want to consider swapping it for something better.
Boat helm console with installed marine stereo, display screen, and controls on a center console fishing boat

Planning A Marine Stereo System

Upgrade your onboard sound with a DIY marine stereo install. Learn how to choose the right receiver, speakers, and setup for better audio on the water.
Anglers fishing on a center console boat with brown foam decking, casting lines into calm open water on a clear day.

Under Foot

Keep your foam boat decking looking great and lasting longer with simple maintenance tips—from proper cleaning techniques to repairing lifted edges and preventing damage.
power-hero

How To Select & Install A DC-To-AC Power Inverter

A fun day of fishing turns from a hot hit to cold fear in seconds.
woods-hero

Your Guide To Marine Woods

Your Guide To Marine Woods
Fold‑down adjustable drink holder mounted on a boat’s gunwale, holding a soda can in an insulated drink sleeve.

Chugalug: Adding Boat Drink Holders

Adding drink holders to your boat can be an easy DIY upgrade. We tested seven popular styles and break down the pros and cons for installation and everyday use.
6 Boat Corrosion Myths

6 Boat Corrosion Myths

Corrosion can feel like black magic, but it’s only chemistry. Here are common misconceptions and real-world explanations for what’s really happening.
Curing The Cover Conundrum

Curing The Cover Conundrum

Boat covers can be an epic pain in the you-know-what. But these tips and tricks learned the hard way will make covering up so much easier.