Journal

[Ytmsn]

When I first bought my boat a friend suggested I keep a log of every single thing. Since I knew going in it would be a project I thought it was an excellent idea and started from the beginning immediately.

I got a portfolio type notebook that can be zipped up. It has a 3 ring binder in it for the owners manual and pockets for receipts. And I have logged everything, from the date I bought it, from who and how far I drove to where it was. Then every date and receipt of everything that's been done since. Oil changes, repairs, any issues are written down, all component manuals are included, registration, etc.

Since there is a thread on the restoration I've even printed that off and added to the book, and it's kept on the boat.

Anyone else do anything like this? As a Cobalt owner, I have to think it will add value when I sell. I'm curious to see if any of you do the same thing, or what ya'll might be doing different?

[Bfun220]

I have this binder.
I do not keep receipts. But I have every manual for anything to do with the boat. I also keep track of part numbers of any parts replaced.

[Big Block Power]

Nice idea I think for what you all did to your boat. If I bought a new boat I would. But I haven't kept a boat more than a season so I don't. I do sometimes write down the maint I do though.

[liquid]

I have a Cobalt bag which has all the manuals including the trailer and service history.

I like the idea of a Ship Log though - who, where and hours... may start that.

[Southernboatman]

Very good idea especially as you noted it was a big restore. I am sure it will be valuable if/when you resell. Is a good idea in general instead of throwing all in the glove compartment!

[Tuscany]

Not for me.
When I'm on my boat, its unplug and decompress time.
No books, no logs, no nuthin but relaxing. All we want to do is enjoy the day, and nothing more.
It's my dealer job to keep service records.

[Alaskabound]

Ytmsn, I do sort of a journal but not that much detail. When I got my first boat in 1977(Seastar tri hull), I wrote down every time I Went out, what lake or river, who went with us, hours on boat, any problems, etc. Also included camper info in 1982. I'm on my 4th boat & 5th camper so it's interesting to look back over the years. Activities have changed greatly from "slalom skied all day" to "sat in cove, had a few beers, went to bed early". I think what you're doing is a great idea. Then, if you throw it away in 20 years, no harm done.

Dub