I am doing the routine maintenance of replacing the oil filter, fuel filter, impeller and zinc for the first time on my "new" 365. It is a 1976 with the original W-40 engine. Does knows where I can stock up on these parts at a good price. I am looking to get several filters since I am heading down to the Caribbean in the fall.
Any other maintenance I should do before launching?
Any other engine essentials I should bring with me?
Replace the zincs in your coolers too. You might consider a fuel filter/water separator if you don't already have one. Spare belts. Check all hoses. Spare water pump impellors. We had a couple of thru hulls that had been replaced and the bonding wire left off. I would try to bring everything on the boat up to 100% and have spares for all consumables (belts, hoses, filters,ect.).
Oddly enough, I have found the best prices for filters are on ebay if you are willing to buy them by the case.. Example
10 filters for $20.00.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/10-FRAM-PH8A-Extra-Guard-Oil-Filters_W0QQitemZ320364735005QQcmdZViewItemQQptZMotors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories?hash=item320364735005&_trksid=p4506.c0.m245&_trkparms=65%3A1%7C39%3A1%7C240%3A1318
Garner
Westerbeke sells a spare parts kit "A". I think it runs around $350. Has anyone purchased that before? Is it worth it? It seems to include most items likely to need replacing (belts, filters, zincs, impeller). I just wonder whether it might be cheaper to build your own kit.
I haven't priced out the parts in their kit, but would be shocked if you couldn't build it yourself for less. Of course, you wouldn't have a nifty red box to put it in -- but you can buy a can of Westerbeke red spray paint for around $25.
I'm sure you could get the same stuff aftermarket for a lot less, or you could spend the same money and then try to figure out where to put it all...
I've started pricing the parts aftermarket and, as you suspected, it is a heck of a lot cheaper. The red box looks nice, but I think I can get by without it.....