[stuartm77]

I just bought my first boat (1996 252 shabah) and love it. There are a few minor things that need some attention and i was going to see if anyone on this message board could help me out.
Mainly is my motorized sundeck (hatch) opens and closes very very slow. Ive seen there is a grease fitting at the very bottom of the pistons that open the hatch, is there something i can do to increase the performance of this.
Also what i believe to be the gear oil resivoir (for my trim i think) tends to loose fluid. Are there any areas that are prone to leaks that i should begin checking before taking to a mechanic.
Also as far as cleaning the boat (white, gel coat in good condition, White leather seats and removable carpet) is there any tips on what to do and not to do when cleaning, what do i need to use to keep this boat which has been well taken care of looking great.

Some of this may seem elementary to all of you but this is my very first boat. Im very mechanically inclined and fairly knowledgeable about cheverolet engines but i have no expeirence with the marine end....

[darkcalling]

Well I am in about the same situation as you I know sbc and bbc like the back of my hand automotive wise. Anyway imo the best way to shine and protect your gel coat is a multi stage polish and waxing I am sure everyone here has a favourite brand I use mcguiars being an old car car my boats have always looked great from feedback I get. If you type in hatch in the search engine you should come up with quite a few about the lifts and such, mines gone altogether. Welcome aboard too.

[stuartm77]

thanks