June 12, 2020

How to Care for your Paddle Wheeler

 Thank you for buying Paddle Wheeler. Your purchase helps to support over 60 American workers. We know you will be as proud of your boat as we are to have built it for you.


  • Upon taking delivery of your new Paddle Wheeler you should apply a coat of wax to the whole boat. We recommend a good automotive or marine wax. Keeping a consistent coat of wax on your boat will significantly help to prevent sun fade and keep your boat looking sparkling new longer. We recommend waxing 3-4 times per summer, more if the boat is outside year-round.
  • It is best to keep your boat covered when not in use. We recommend our mooring covers that are custom made for your model of Paddle Wheeler. Contact us for pricing.
  • Periodically throughout the summer and before every use, check the drain plugs in the pontoons and footwells to ensure they are tight.
    • To loosen (and remove) plugs: Turn the handlebar to the left. The plugs may need to be wiggled in an up and down and/or sideways direction as you pull them out.
    • To install plugs: Make sure the plug is in the “loosen” position (the t-handle is turned left allowing only a small portion of the screw “tip” showing at the end that is inserted). Insert the plug into the pontoon or footwell and turn the handle to the right to tighten. Keep turning until the plug is tight and you are unable to pull it out.
  • Regularly check the bolts connecting the paddle wheel to the crank to ensure they are tight. If these bolts are allowed to loosen over time the mounting holes in the paddlewheel can become elongated, eventually causing the connection to the pedals to fail. Boats used in a commercial setting should be checked monthly.
  • Check the greaseable bearings and grease them occasionally, as needed, with a high-quality marine grade grease. We recommend that you check the nylon bushings yearly and replace them when necessary.
  • The grab rails are not to be used for pulling or for lifting the boat. This can cause significant damage to the boat and is not covered under the warranty.
  • When the swim ladder is in the folded-up position, you must lift that part of the ladder up slightly and then unfold it downward. Never force the bottom section down without lifting first as it will cause the hinges to break. This situation is not covered by warranty.
  • For storage in the winter months, we recommend that you store your Paddle Wheeler with a cover (mooring or other). It is imperative that you store the boat in such a way that no water or snow can collect and freeze in the footwells, on seats, or in the wheel housing. This can cause the fiberglass to crack and is not covered by the warranty. Before storing, pull the drain plugs in both the footwells and each pontoon and drain any water out. Be sure to reinstall the plugs so that nothing can get inside the boat while it is stored (mice, etc.).

 

By following these simple steps, you can ensure your Paddle Wheeler will be around for years to come, free from problems. If you have any questions, please feel free to call your dealer or contact us at (989) 723- 8997.


Paddle Wheeler – America’s #1 Fiberglass Pedal Boat