Protect Your Boat This Summer – Service Tips Inside

SANDBAR FUN, ENGINE TROUBLE:
HOW SAND CAN OVERHEAT YOUR BOAT

Sandbar parties are fun, but they pose a hidden potential danger to your boat: sand intrusion into the cooling system. This can lead to restricted water flow and, eventually, engine overheating. Here’s what to watch for and the maintenance issues that can arise:

Signs Sand May Be Causing Overheating:

1. High Engine Temperature Gauge
First and most obvious indicator — keep an eye on your temp gauge.

2. Reduced Water Flow from the Tell-Tale ("Pee Hole")
On outboards, a weak or erratic stream suggests a clogged
water passage.

3. Steam or Smoke from Exhaust
This usually means the engine is not cooling properly.

4. Warning Alarms or Limp Mode
Many modern engines will sound an alert or limit power if overheating is detected.

5. Performance Loss
An overheating engine might bog down, especially at higher RPMs.

QUESTION & ANSWER

QUESTION: WHEN SHOULD YOU STOP PUTTING MONEY INTO YOUR OLD ENGINE?

ANSWER: It’s a question we hear a lot—and the answer depends on a few key things.

A well-maintained engine can last many years, but once you’re past the 12-year mark, parts can become harder to find and more expensive. Some manufacturers keep parts available longer than others, but those costs add up fast—and sometimes exceed the value of the engine itself.

You don’t want to drop serious money on one repair, only to run into the next issue a few months later.

If you’re spending more time in the shop each season, it might be time to ask: Is it worth repairing—or should I repower?

We can help you make that call. Reach out to your local dealer or give us a call for an honest engine assessment.

PARTS HIGHLIGHT:

Protect Your Hull with a Keel Guard

Your keel takes a beating — whether it’s from beaching, ramps, trailers, or underwater debris. Over time, that adds up to real damage and costly repairs. A keel guard is a simple, high-impact upgrade that protects your boat’s most vulnerable area and helps preserve its value.

At Lynnhaven, we install keel guards with a detailed, five-step process that ensures a secure, long-lasting bond. From surface prep to final sealing, we do it right so you don’t have to worry.

Why it’s worth it:
• Shields the keel from gouges and wear
• Prevents expensive fiberglass and gelcoat repairs
• Helps maintain resale value
• Looks clean and requires minimal upkeep

For a closer look at how it’s installed and why it matters, check out our latest blog post.

Installing a Boat Keel Guard

Want to protect your boat before peak season?
Call us for an estimate based on your boat’s size: 757-481-0700

Check Out Our Parts Department

PROTECTING WHAT MOVES YOU –
KEEL GUARD UPGRADE

Last month, we introduced a heartfelt skiff revival — a backyard dream brought back to life. This month, we’re wrapping up the project and showing off the finished product.

With the helm installed and wiring complete, our service team moved on to clean up and secure all the wire bundles for a neat, reliable finish. We added a GPS unit and new gauge to give Mrs. Johnson everything she needs for safe, easy navigation.

After final checks and adjustments, it was time for the sea trial — and she ran beautifully, hitting around 35 MPH on the water.

The best part? Mrs. Johnson came down for her official shakedown run with our tech, where we walked through her boat’s new systems and controls. It was a special moment seeing her at the helm of a boat filled with both old memories and new potential.

Thank you, Mrs. Johnson, for trusting us with this project. We’re proud to help bring this little gem back to life.

Contact Service

UPGRADE YOUR RIDE & PROTECT THE ENVIRONMENT
WITH SUZUKI’S 4-4-2 TRADE-IN PROGRAM

At Lynnhaven Marine, we’re committed to bringing you the best in marine technology while protecting our waterways. That’s why we’re excited to share Suzuki Marine’s 4-4-2 Trade-In Program — helping you upgrade to a cleaner, more fuel-efficient 4-stroke outboard while responsibly removing old 2-stroke engines.

Here’s how it works:
• Trade in your old 2-stroke outboard — any brand, any condition.
• Save with an exclusive discount on a new Suzuki 4-stroke engine.
• Give back — your old engine will be scrapped or recycled, with proceeds donated to an environmental organization.
Upgrade to a reliable, clean-burning Suzuki 4-stroke and help improve the health of our lakes, rivers, and oceans. It’s a win-win for you and the environment!