Customer Tips
Learn about boat handling, seamanship, maintenance, fishing, dining and more with these handy tips.
Battery Select Switches: How to Use 1, 2, BOTH, and OFF Safely
Battery select switches are essential on boats with two or more marine batteries. They control which battery (or battery bank) powers engine starting, onboard electronics, and receives charge from the outboard engine. Most switches have four positions: 1, 2, BOTH (1+2), and OFF.Position 1: Uses Battery 1 (or Bank 1)Position 2: Uses Battery 2 (or Bank 2)BOTH (1+2): Combines both batteries—use only if one battery is too weak to start the engineAfter starting, switch back to Position 1 or 2. Avoid running in BOTH for extended periods, as it can drain both batteries. For twin-engine boats, set one switch to 1 and the other to 2 to balance usage and charging. For single-engine setups, alternate between positions regularly.Use the OFF position only when the engine is not running to prevent battery drain. Automatic bilge pump float switches will still function in OFF mode. Important: Never turn the switch to OFF while the engine is running—or pass through OFF when switching between 1 and 2—as this can damage the charging system.
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How To Properly Use Your VHF in an Emergency
We hope you never have an emergency situation on your boat; however, safety should always be a part of your boating preparations. Take a moment to review this BoatUS video as Lenny Rudow walks us through the proper procedures of calling for help on the water. Then, share it with your friends and family.
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Your Grady-White Spring Make Ready Checklist
The following are general guidelines. Check your Grady-White owner’s manual for more details, or see your Grady dealership for assistance.FUEL SYSTEM Inspect hoses, connections, and tank surfaces.Replace components as needed. Verify all fittings and clamps are properly secured.Ensure the engine, exhaust, and all systems are functioning properly. CABLES & HOSES Check for any flaws, cracks, or brittleness in the control cables.Inspect fresh and raw water hoses/lines for cracks, swells, or any visible problem. Don't forget seacocks.ELECTRICAL AND DIGITAL SYSTEMSInspect all electrical connections for cleanliness and tightness; corrosion may require attention.Clean battery terminals with a wire bush if needed.If you notice any irregularities in electrical or digital systems, have them inspected by a qualified technician at your Grady-White dealership.FLUID LEVELS AND HYDRAULICSCheck hydraulic steering and trim tab levels. Top off if necessary.Change engine oil, oil filter, and lubricants if these tasks were not done prior to winterizing. PROPELLERS & HULLS Inspect propellers for dings, pitting, cracks, or distortion. Make sure propeller is secured properly; replace parts as needed. Check hull for any cracks or dings.Check through-hull fittings for integrity.Clean the hull, deck, and topsides.SAFETY GEAR Inspect life jackets to ensure they are in good condition; make sure there is one for each potential passenger. Check that fire extinguishers are fully charged, properly stowed, are less than 12 years old (USCG requirement), and are the correct class for your vessel. MOST OF ALLHappy Boating!Get more information on performance and efficiency and maintaining your Grady-White.There are many ways to stay in touch with Grady-White! Connect with us on Facebook and Instagram, and subscribe to our YouTube channel. Submit your photos for a chance to be featured on our website or in our social media posts.
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Take Control with Helm Master® EX
Yamaha’s Helm Master® EX with Full Maneuverability is designed to deliver precise control and confident maneuvering. Watch this step-by-step how-to video as we walk you through system operation, available modes, and how each feature works together to enhance your on-water experience.
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Quick Reference Maintenance Guide
Download our Quick Reference Maintenance Guide for quick tips on how to maintain your Grady, and refer to your owner’s manual for more details.
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Techniques for docking in wind and/or current
Most Grady-White captains are good boat handlers, but as new generations come along and first mates graduate to captain, it’s a good idea to review the techniques. Boat handling while coming ashore or getting underway in wind and/or current can be tricky especially around the dock. It’s a lot safer and easier for boat and crew if you know and understand good docking techniques. Here is a technique that works well if the stronger force (wind or current) is coming off the dock or ahead. Remember that this may take a little practice, but soon you’ll be docking like a pro.Approach dock slowly at an angle of about 30°-40°.Put engine in reverse a few feet from the dock to slow and halt the boat, then shift engine to neutral and, while fending off the boat as necessary, get the bowline ashore and secured.With the bow secured, turn the engine as if to make a starboard turn, have a mate fend off the bow as necessary, and power ahead to swing the stern in towards the dock.Make the stern fast to the dock. You may want to use a spring line to make re-boarding easy, and use fenders or bumpers made fast to the boat rails depending on exactly where the wind and/or current are from.
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