Built to Military Standards

Marine Squadron

Marine Engine
Repairs

Expert diagnostics and repair services for all types of marine engines, ensuring optimal performance and reliability for your vessel.

Electrical
Repairs

Comprehensive repairs for marine electrical systems, from battery connections to wiring and electronic components, keeping your boat powered and safe.

Cooling System
Repairs

Complete cooling system repairs for raw water-cooled engines, including thermostats, seawater pumps, and exhaust manifolds, protecting your engine from salt water damage.

Marine Engine
Rebuilds

Equipped with advanced tools and expertise, we perform comprehensive engine work directly on the boat, eliminating the need to take it out of the water in most cases.

Marine Canvas & Upholstery

Expert reupholstering of marine furniture and restoration of canvas, enhancing comfort and durability while maintaining a perfect fit for your boat’s interior and exterior.

Custom Boat Hardtops and T-Tops

individually built, load-bearing structures made of stainless steel. They support either a solid fiberglass roof or a framed structure with a canvas top.

Gas and Diesel
Engine Repair

At Marine Squadron, we specialize in a wide range of top-tier mechanical services tailored to meet all your boat engineering needs. Our experienced technicians are proficient in repairing and maintaining both diesel and gasoline engines, including generators and complex drive systems like Volvo IPS, Mercury Stern, and Zeus Drives.

Our services extend to comprehensive electrical and plumbing repairs, including inverter installations and battery charger services. We expertly manage steering and shift systems, fuel systems, and hydraulic systems.

Trust Marine Squadron for skilled, reliable maintenance and repairs to keep your boat performing at its best.

Custom Boat Hardtops

Enhance your boat with a custom-built hard top or T-top, designed for any boat type, including sailboats, catamarans, and powerboats—not just center-console fishing boats.
Unlike traditional T-tops, which have a canvas roof stretched over a metal frame with rope, hard tops provide a solid, long-lasting solution. While T-tops are affordable and easily replaceable, they degrade over time due to sun exposure.
Our stainless steel-framed hard tops, featuring either solid fiberglass or framed canvas tops, are built for durability and require only standard cleaning.

For added versatility, Isinglass side panels can be attached with snaps, creating a weather-resistant enclosure when needed. For even greater protection, we also offer custom hard side windows, ensuring superior durability in all conditions.

Upgrade your boat today with a hard top for a lifetime-lasting solution or a T-top for a lightweight, cost-effective option—whichever best fits your boating needs!
Restore the comfort and style of your boat’s interior with our expert marine upholstery services. We specialize in reupholstering existing marine furniture, ensuring a perfect fit and premium craftsmanship. Using high-quality marine-grade materials, we replace worn or damaged cushions, seats, and panels, enhancing both durability and aesthetics. Our upholstery work is designed to withstand the harsh marine environment, offering long-lasting protection against sun, salt, and moisture. Upgrade your boat’s seating and interior with precision-tailored solutions for maximum comfort and longevity.

Protect your boat from the elements with our professional marine canvas restoration services. We refurbish existing boat covers, bimini tops, enclosures, and protective canvas, extending their lifespan and improving functionality. Our team ensures a precise fit, using high-quality, weather-resistant materials that stand up to UV rays, saltwater, and heavy use. Whether your canvas needs reinforcement, restitching, or full replacement, we provide tailored solutions to keep your boat protected and looking its best.

Upgrade your boat’s deck with durable, marine-grade carpets and flooring solutions. We create custom deck coverings made from woven vinyl fiber with a soft backing, providing superior slip resistance. These materials are highly durable, resistant to UV rays, saltwater, and harsh marine conditions. Flooring can be installed with adhesive, but is often secured with snaps for easy removal, cleaning, and drying. Whether you need a complete carpet replacement or a targeted repair, we offer tailored solutions that enhance both aesthetics and functionality on board.

Certified Marine Surveyors

SURVEY REPORTS

Marina Application Surveys

Tailored evaluations to meet specific marina requirements, ensuring your vessel complies with all necessary standards and regulations for acceptance.

Condition & Value Examination

Detailed inspection to determine the vessel's current state and value before purchase, helping buyers make informed decisions and negotiate better.

Pre-sale
Surveys

Evaluate and document the boat’s condition and market value, providing sellers with crucial information to optimize sale prospects and pricing strategies.

In Water and Out of Water Surveys

Comprehensive assessments performed both while the vessel is docked and in the water, examining structural integrity, safety features, and overall condition.

BOAT PRE-SALE PREPARATION

Maximize your boat’s market value with our comprehensive Boat Pre-Sale Prep services. We ensure your vessel is visually appealing and mechanically sound, highlighting its best features through detailed cleaning, meticulous inspections, and strategic enhancements. Prepare to impress potential buyers and secure the best possible sale.

Detailed Cleaning and Detailing

Achieve a pristine appearance with thorough cleaning of both the interior and exterior, ensuring every surface shines.

Mechanical Inspections and Repairs

Perform full mechanical checks and address any issues to ensure all systems operate smoothly, increasing buyer confidence.

Aesthetic Enhancements

Update and refresh visual aspects of your boat, enhancing its overall appeal with our creative touches and solutions.

Cracks and Holes Repair

Meticulously fix any structural imperfections to restore integrity and improve the aesthetic appeal of your vessel.

Water Leak Elimination

Identify and resolve any water intrusion issues, safeguarding against potential damage and ensuring a dry, comfortable environment.

USCG Compliance Check

Verify compliance with all U.S. Coast Guard safety and operational standards to assure potential buyers of legal conformity and safety.

Your engine runs but lacks power or sputters during acceleration.
This often indicates a clogged fuel filter or fouled spark plugs. Inspect and replace the in-line fuel filter if it’s dirty, and check the spark plugs for wear or deposits, replacing them as needed.

The engine temperature rises above normal operating levels.
Check for adequate coolant levels and ensure the water intake is free from obstructions. Inspect the water pump for proper operation and consider replacing the thermostat if overheating persists.

The engine fails to turn over or start.
Ensure the fuel tank has sufficient fuel and the fuel valve is open. Verify that the battery is charged and connections are clean and tight. Check the ignition switch and safety lanyard to ensure they’re functioning properly.

The battery doesn’t hold a charge or depletes quickly.
Inspect the alternator belt for wear or looseness and replace if necessary. Check battery terminals for corrosion and clean them. Test the alternator’s output to ensure it’s charging the battery correctly.

Electronics or lights malfunction or don’t operate.
Examine fuses and circuit breakers for any that are blown or tripped, replacing or resetting them as needed. Inspect wiring for signs of corrosion, damage, or loose connections, and repair or replace faulty wires.

 

The engine runs but stalls when idling.
This could be due to a dirty idle air control valve or clogged fuel injectors. Clean or replace the idle air control valve and consider using a fuel injector cleaner to remove deposits.

Excessive vibration felt when the engine is running.
Inspect the propeller for damage, such as dents or bends, and ensure it’s securely tightened. A damaged propeller should be repaired or replaced to prevent further issues.

Smell of gasoline inside the boat.
Check for fuel leaks in the lines, connections, and tank. Ensure the bilge is clean and ventilated, and repair any leaks immediately to prevent hazardous conditions.

Hard to steer or unresponsive steering.
Examine the steering system for leaks, low hydraulic fluid, or mechanical obstructions. Lubricate moving parts and top off hydraulic fluid as needed.

The engine runs unevenly or backfires.
Inspect spark plugs and ignition coils for wear or damage, replacing them if necessary. Check the timing and adjust if it’s out of specification.

Electrical components fail or behave erratically due to corroded terminals and wiring.
Inspect terminals, connectors, and wires for signs of corrosion. Clean affected areas using a wire brush or contact cleaner. Apply dielectric grease to connections to prevent future corrosion, and consider using heat-shrink tubing or sealed connectors in high-exposure areas for added protection.

Boat doesn’t plane properly or has difficulty trimming.
Check the trim tabs and actuators for proper operation. Ensure there’s no debris obstructing their movement and that the hydraulic system is functioning correctly. Redistribute weight to lower levels in the bow or cabin to improve trim balance and performance.

Thick smoke emitted from the exhaust.
Identify the smoke color: blue indicates oil burning, black suggests a rich fuel mixture, and white points to water intrusion. Address the underlying cause accordingly, such as checking for oil leaks, adjusting the fuel system, or inspecting for coolant leaks.

Bilge pump doesn’t activate or remove water.
Test the pump by manually activating the float switch. Check for blown fuses, corroded wiring, or a clogged intake, and clean or replace components as necessary.

Navigation lights fail to illuminate.
Inspect bulbs for burnout and replace if needed. Check wiring connections for corrosion or looseness, and ensure the switch and fuse are operational.

Depth readings are incorrect or erratic.
Clean the transducer to remove marine growth or debris. Verify it’s properly mounted and that there are no air bubbles interfering with its operation.

Anchor windlass doesn’t operate or is sluggish.
Check the circuit breaker and ensure adequate power supply. Inspect the motor and gearbox for signs of wear or damage, and lubricate moving parts as recommended.

Instrument panel gauges are inoperative or display erratically.
Examine the wiring harness for loose or corroded connections. Test individual gauges for functionality and replace faulty units.

Delay between throttle input and engine response.
Inspect throttle cables for wear, corrosion, or improper tension. Lubricate or replace cables as necessary, and ensure the linkage is free of obstructions.

Engine performance issues due to contaminated fuel.
Drain the fuel tank and replace it with fresh, clean fuel. Inspect and replace the fuel-water separator and any inline filters. To prevent future contamination, ensure fuel caps are properly sealed and consider using a fuel stabilizer or additive designed to disperse water. Regularly inspect the fuel system for leaks or condensation buildup.

Maintaining your boat’s engine and electrical systems is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience on the water. Here are 20 common issues, along with practical steps to diagnose and address them. Remember, while some problems can be resolved with basic troubleshooting, others may require professional attention.

BOATER'S EMERGENCY F.A.Q.

LATEST ARTICLE

The Cable Steering System:
An Outdated Relic in Modern Boating

For decades, cable steering systems have been the default choice for many boats, praised for their simplicity and affordability. However, as boating technology advances and safety standards evolve, it has become increasingly clear that cable steering systems no longer meet the demands of modern navigation. These systems, with their inherent design flaws, are a weak link in ensuring a safe and responsive boating experience. Fortunately, hydraulic steering systems provide an ideal solution, bringing a new level of precision, reliability, and longevity to boat control.

One of the most significant drawbacks of cable steering systems is their poor responsiveness. Over time, the cable stretches, causing noticeable slack or “lash” in the steering mechanism. This results in a steering wheel that feels loose and unresponsive, requiring excessive effort to turn the boat. For operators, this means reduced control, especially in critical moments where precise handling is crucial.

Another common issue is the guaranteed wear and tear of the cable. The inner Teflon lining of the cable is prone to abrasion as the cable moves back and forth during use. Eventually, this leads to increased friction, making the steering stiff and harder to maneuver. In the worst cases, the cable can fray or seize entirely.

From a safety perspective, these issues make cable steering systems an outdated choice. Modern boaters expect their vessels to respond quickly and predictably, much like a car on the road. A system that introduces delay and unpredictability simply cannot meet today’s safety standards.

Hydraulic steering systems offer a transformative upgrade for any boat equipped with a cable system. Unlike cable systems, hydraulic systems rely on fluid dynamics to transfer steering input to the rudder or outboard motor. This eliminates the slack and play associated with cables, resulting in a steering experience that is smooth, precise, and highly responsive.

With no physical cable to stretch or fray, hydraulic system provides consistent performance throughout its lifespan. A hydraulic steering wheel feels much like a car’s steering—intuitive and effortless. Unlike cable systems, which degrade over time, hydraulic systems are built to last indefinitely with minimal maintenance. The absence of physical wear points like cables means that a hydraulic system will not fail due to prolonged use. This “fit-and-forget” reliability is invaluable for boat owners who prioritize safety and long-term value.

At Marine Squadron, we specialize in transforming your boat’s handling with professional hydraulic steering system installations. Our team of experts brings decades of experience in marine hydraulic systems, ensuring every installation is tailored to the specific needs of your vessel.

Upgrading to a hydraulic steering system is more than just an improvement. It’s a game-changer for your boating experience. At Marine Squadron, we’re committed to delivering top-tier service and expertise to transform your boat into a safer, more responsive, and more enjoyable vessel to operate. 

Contact Marine Squadron today to learn more about upgrading to a hydraulic steering system and experience the difference for yourself. 

Thank you for choosing Marine Squadron! We specialize in comprehensive boat repairs and maintenance, ready to handle any challenge with precision and expertise. Whether you need urgent assistance or routine care, our mobile team is just a call away.

  • Advanced Boat Engine Repair and Maintenance: We repair and rebuild all types of marine engines, including popular models like Mercury Mercruiser and Volvo Penta, and handle both inboard and outboard engines.
  • Hull Inspections and Bottom Paint Applications: Protect and enhance your vessel’s performance with our state-of-the-art equipment and skilled technicians.
  • Electronics and Plumbing Solutions: From sophisticated navigation systems to essential plumbing repairs, we provide reliable services right at your dock.
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