Sarasota Boat Owner: When To DIY and When to Hire a Professional for Repairs
If you’re a handy Sarasota boat owner, you probably take care of a lot of your own maintenance and repairs. However, there are jobs that are best left to seasoned professionals.
So, how do you make the decision? Start by evaluating the job that needs to be done and ask yourself, “Can I do this? Am I capable?” If the answer is no, pay a professional. If the answer is yes, make sure you’re up for the challenge.
However, there’s an overarching question that overrides whether you want to do a job. Can you afford to pay a professional? If you don’t have the cash, it looks like the job is up to you.
I can service my trailer without a problem. I know how to replace brakes, how to inspect and diagnose the hydraulic system, and how to service bearings. But I always pay a professional to do these things because I don’t enjoy the work, and the cost is inexpensive.
Another example is engine work. Most of the Sarasota boat owner engines I deal with are Chevrolet car engines, which I’m familiar and comfortable with. If an engine needs a head gasket replaced, I’ll perform that repair because engines interest me. Engine repairs can also be expensive.
Then, there are stern-drive repairs, for which I’ll usually always hire a professional. If it’s anything more serious than changing the gear lube, I’ll take it to the shop, because there are a lot of special tools for the job that I don’t have. The costs aren’t cheap, but they’re even more expensive if I mess something up while trying to fix it.
Also, it’s important to check if the repair might be covered under warranty. It might not even be necessary for you to open the toolbox!
In the end, if you are a Sarasota boat owner that doesn’t mind getting their hands dirty and spending the afternoon fixing up your vessel, then the repair may be for you. If not, then hiring a professional may be the best bet.