Top 11 Pontoon Boat Parts You Need to Know About In 2023

Reviewed By Boatsbuilding Expert

When you buy a brand-new pontoon boat, you probably expect to use it for years. However, things don’t always go as planned.

Even the most reliable boats can break down or suffer wear and tear. To keep your boat in top shape, you should have spare parts on hand so that repairs are fast and easy when needed.

Pontoon boat parts are essential accessories that let you repair minor damage to your vessel and keep it running smoothly for years to come.

Whether you need a single part or several, the market is packed with different pontoon boat accessories that can help extend the life of your boat.

Here are some of the essential pontoon parts you should have on hand:

An anchor is essential for every boat. It’s the only way to get anchored to a specific spot, so you can fish or relax away from busy waters.

Anchor And Anchor Chain

The anchor and anchor chain you use should be sturdy enough to hold your boat in place, even in rough weather.

The parts you purchase must be designed for the type and size of your boat. When you buy parts for a larger boat, your vessel may drag, which can be dangerous.

Smaller boats may end up with too heavy anchors, which can also be dangerous. Chains are also important for anchors.

Make sure you have enough chains for the water depth you plan to anchor. While you may only need 10 or 15 feet at the deepest point, the chain has to be long enough to spool out to the anchor.

Most pontoon boats run on batteries. You’ll find them powering the lights, navigation system and the motor.

Battery

Your lights are dimming or your motor is slowing down if you have a problem with your battery.

You should replace batteries after several years if they become worn out.

Make sure you know the battery size when purchasing new parts. Choosing a battery with the right amperage and voltage is crucial for pontoon boats.

Over time, your bow cushion could wear out. It is possible to replace a bow cushion if it shows signs of tears or rips.

Bow Cushion

Keeping the bow cushion in top shape is crucial since it protects you from the force of the water when you’re going fast.

You don’t want to compromise your safety when you’re out on the water, so if the bow cushion is falling apart, replace it as soon as possible.

You could wear out the seat on your pontoon boat over time. Another seat can be substituted if it does.

Depending on your seat type, the one you’re replacing might have quick-release buckles.

Bucket Seats

These are great for quick and effortless removal when you need to replace the seat. If your seat is old and worn, it might be time to replace it.

Just so you know, pontoon boats are made for sitting, so make sure the seat you choose is comfortable and sturdy enough to hold you as you fish.

Pontoon boats have many different cleats. These are designed to hold ropes and lines securely in place. Each pontoon has two cleats, one on either side of the vessel.

Cleats

Some pontoon boats come with pre-installed cleats. Others don’t, so you may need to install them yourself.

Install the right size cleats on your boat to keep ropes in place. A loose rope can damage your pontoon.

You’ll find footrests in the deck of many pontoon boats. They’re designed to make it easier to stand and fish, particularly in choppy waters.

New footrests can be installed if the old ones are worn or torn.

Footrests

You may need a friend to help you install the footrests if you have never done it before.

When purchasing new footrests, choose ones that fit your boat’s make and model. Universal footrests are available for some models and are designed to fit a variety of models.

A hull protector is a plastic or rubber covering that helps shield the bottom of your boat from damage. If you dock your boat often or go out on rocky waters, a hull protector can save you from costly repairs.

Hull Protector

You can buy a hull protector made for your specific boat. You can also use a tarp to protect the bottom if you don’t have one.

Install a new hull protector if your old one is worn out. It is important to clean your boat’s hull before installing hull protectors.

Spending much time on the water may warrant investing in new locks and lock tools. It’s easy to steal pontoon boats because they’re large vessels. A new lock or tool can help keep your vessel safe.

Locks And Locksmith Tools

When buying new locks and lock tools, ensure they’re designed for your boat model and make. Universal locks may not be strong enough to deter thieves in some models.

It could signify that you need new motor oil if you notice your engine running louder than usual. A new container can either be purchased, or an old container can be transferred to the new container.

Motor Oil And Filter

Whenever you buy new oil, be sure it’s compatible with your motor. Your motor’s filter should also be changed regularly, ideally every year. Alternatively, you can have your boat serviced at a marina nearby.

You might need to replace your batteries if your motor slows down or shuts down. You should always keep a spare set, no matter how many batteries you have. Motors require batteries to run.

A slowing or shutting down motor could indicate that you need new batteries. The battery charger can be used to transfer old batteries to new ones. Chargers can be bought if you do not have one.

The pontoons are the main part of your boat. They’re the platforms that support the rest of the vessel.

They’re made of different materials, including wood and fiberglass. You can buy replacement parts for your pontoons, such as the floaters, frames, and keels.

Each of these parts serves a specific purpose, so keep them in good shape to extend the life of your boat.

In the realm of boating, the importance of quality pontoon boat parts cannot be overstated.

Whether you’re in the market to offer pontoon enhancements, upgrade your pontoon furniture, invest in essential parts & accessories, or protect your investment with durable boat covers, ensuring you choose the best ensures longevity and optimal enjoyment on the water.

Making informed decisions in these areas is pivotal to a fulfilling pontoon boating experience.

FAQS

What are the parts of a pontoon boat called?

The parts of a pontoon boat are many and varied, depending on the type of pontoon boat. A pontoon boat has two main parts: the deck (sometimes called the ‘dwelling’), which is the part that sits above the water, and the pontoons, which are the large floating platforms that sit below the water. The pontoons provide stability for the boat, as well as giving it a strong foundation to rest on.
The deck of a pontoon boat may have various amenities, including seating areas, sleeping cabins, and bathrooms. The pontoons contain motors, which provide propulsion for the boat. They may also have amenities such as swim platforms and seating areas. The pontoons also contain hulls, which are the main bodies of the boats and give them shape.
Other parts of a pontoon boat include:
Deck: Seating areas, sleeping cabins, bathrooms
Pontoons: Motors, Swim Platforms, Seating Areas

What are the things on the bottom of a pontoon boat called?

First, you will find the keel on the bottom of your pontoon boat. The keel is usually found in the center of the boat and is below all other items. The keel keeps your pontoon boat stable in water and helps it to stay upright. Next, you will find your fenders on the bottom of your pontoon boat. Fenders are found at each corner of your pontoon boat and help to prevent damage when docking or putting up the boat for storage. You will likely also find that there are outboard motors on the bottom of your pontoon boat. Outboard motors are placed on the bottom of each end of your pontoon boat so they can provide power. Finally, you may also find screws and bolts on the bottom of your pontoon boat. These screws and bolts help to hold all of your items in place and prevent them from moving around when you are using the boat for transportation.
Fred Apstein
Fred Apstein is a man of many talents. He studied at Sustainable Community Development and Royal Roads University, but what he loves to do is sailing, building boats, cooking seafood, and picking up the pieces when things go wrong! He's been in business for over 40 years with no refrigeration on his sailboats - that means food drying and pickling became necessary skills