Keeping Your Gear Top Notch

This time of year is rough on us boaters, we can no longer spend every weekend enjoying our time on the water. During this time off, how can we keep our gear looking like new all year round? How you store your gear has a big impact on its lifespan and performance. 

It really doesn't take much to keep your gear performing like new, just a little extra effort. If you are anything like me, your rope gets pulled into the boat and laid on the floor in a heap after use. Make sure to take the time to coil the rope after each use being careful to loop it in 1-3 foot long sections. To make coiling easier, give your wrist a little half twist as you are coiling. It will make the rope want to wrap around itself. 

Your Wakeboard's edge is critical not only to how it performs, but how it ages. You don't want to stand it up in a corner on a hard surface. That is an easy way to crack the joint where the top and bottom of the board come together. If that happens, you board will come apart. Always place your board binding side down.  You could even go one step further and entirely remove your bindings to dry separately from the board. 

After your adventure on the water, your wetsuit needs drying before it is stored. The proper way to do this is to lay it inside out on a flat surface out of direct sunlight. doing this will maintain the seams and material. Once it is dry, you can hand it up on a hanger like a normal suit. Better yet, find an actual suit hanger with broader shoulders to help hold the shape of the suite better.

The last piece of gear is your life vest. Did you know that drying your life vest in direct sunlight can actually break down the fibers in the vest drastically reducing its life span? You also do not want to just stick in a storage compartment to dry. Doing this will create some not so pleasant smells and mildew problems. The best way to dry your vest is letting it drip dry in a cool dry area making sure it is vertical to allow the water to drain from the bottom. 

With these tips your gear will continue looking and acting like it did the day you bought it. What are some other tip & tricks you use to keep your gear looking and acting like new?

How To Change Your Spark Plug

With today's modern fuel injection engines, changing your spark plugs is few and far between, but that day will come that you will need to know how to properly change a spark plug on your boat. That is where we come in. Here are some tips and tricks for changing your spark plugs.

Choose The Right Plug

A tad short or not the right heat range won't fly. Close enough will not work when installing spark plugs. The best way to figure out the right spark plug is to contact the manufacturer. 

Using The Right Wrench

Spark plugs have a porcelain tip on them that is protected by a foam cover. Using a standard socket wrench could crack the porcelain. You will need a steady hand, socket extension and tight griping socket.

Using The Right Torque

Over tightening is one of the biggest mistakes. If you overtighten the spark plug when reinstalling it, your could strip the cylinder which would be costly to remove and have it re-threaded. The average torque wrench setting should be between 18-20 pounds per square inch. Make sure to check with the manufacturer before use.

Using The Right Gap

The gap is the distance the spark has to jump. If you have a gapless engine, then this is one step that you do not have to worry with. If your sparks need to be gapped, I would suggest investing in feeler gages. The gap setting can be found on the emissions plate of the engine or in the owner’s manual

Quick Tip: As you are changing your plug, check the others. Look for water droplets, aluminum bits, or a white substance on them. If you find any, take it to your dealer before you head out again.

Now that you can properly change your spark plugs, don't let the fear of what might go wrong stop you from enjoy a day relaxing on the water. If you are looking for some more tips on the subject, check these out. 

Tarp Tactics

It is the time of year that most boaters start to get a little depressed because the boating season is winding down. Winterization and storage options occupy our minds. There are my options for your winter storage needs ranging from having the boat here at the marina to storing it yourself at your house. If you choose to house your boat in your driveway, then you will need to know the basics for the use of a tarp. That is where we come in. 

There are many reasons to store your boat at home, the biggest is convenience. You can work on your boat whenever you have a free moment. No need to spend time driving to and from the marina and no more frustration if you left something at home. There are some challenges to storing your boat at home over the winter months. The first being how do you keep it out of the elements? A tarp. 

Using a tarp can be tricking and here are a few tips to make it easier for you. 

Sharp Edges 

On your boat you have sharp edges that no matter how many times you’ve tried to cover your boat with a tarp they inevitably rip the tarp. How do you prevent it? When you are covering your boat, first put old pieces of carpet or rags over the sharp edges and secure them with duct tape. The carpet rounds the edges which will protect your tarp. 

Securing the Tarp 

The best way to secure your tarp would be to wrap the bungee cords around the bottom of your boat. Doing that would make it very difficult to get in and work on your boat during the off season. The easiest way would be to fill a few milk jugs with rocks and water and tie them with rope to a few points of the tarp to hold it in place. When you want to get in the boat, you just need to undo a few jugs and not have to worry about exposing the whole boat. 

Tarp Support

 You will need to support your tarp at its low points or it will collect water which could completely compromise the tarp. The easiest way to do this would be to place a step ladder on the deck of your boat to keep the tarp supported. You now have the knowledge to better prepare your boat for winter storage at your home. Just remember to get proper ventilation under the tarp otherwise; you could end up having a mildew problem on your hands. Would you like more information on tarp tactics? Click here.

Campbell's Island

What do you know about Campbell’s Island? I’m sure that we have all seen or visited this island but do you actually know of its history? Let’s start with the basics. Campbell’s Island is an island and unincorporated community on the Mississippi River that connects to East Moline by way of a bridge.


Now, what makes Campbell’s Island important? This Island became known during the War of 1812. It was the site of the Battle of Rock Island Rapids, which is one of the westernmost battles of the war. During this battle is where the island got its name. The British Army fought American forces led by a Lieutenant John Campbell. During the battle, Campbell was forced to retreat. Even though he lost the battle, his name survived and lived on.


At the turn of the century, Campbell’s Island was bought by a streetcar company. This company bought the land intending to build an amusement park to take up the entirety of the island. During this time is when the first bridge to the island was constructed. This island became more of a resort area through the mid-20^th century.

The Campbell’s Island that we know today has changed and continues to change due to the power of the mighty Mississippi. The island is about 1.25 miles long and 0.5 miles wide. It is now the home of a suburban community, which due to the fact that Campbell’s Island is low sitting, is prone to flooding. When you tour the island expect to find their houses built on stilts.


We now know the history surrounding Campbell Island. So let’s take our new found knowledge and head out to explore this island for ourselves. Let us know what you discover.

Enjoying Your Personal Watercraft

Personal watercrafts can be a fun and enjoyable way to experience the water. They can give you the freedom and maneuverability like nothing else. They are also dangerous; the PWC (Personal Water Craft) is not a toy. Here we will discuss the proper way to enjoy a PWC.


The first thing to remember when riding a PWC is to always keep safety in mind. That means wearing a proper fitting life jacket to keep you afloat in an accident. Also, having good fitting eye protection is not a bad idea. Tight fitting wrap around goggles can protect your eyes from flying debris and water.


Once you have the proper safety equipment ready to go, you need to take the time to get to know the PWC. For example, the PWC do not have brakes. Everything is done with the throttle. Taking the extra time to learn the machine would make for an easier time on the water.


You know how to use your PWC; you have your safety gear ready to go; now it’s time to know the rules of the water for a PWC. There are many different rules to know before leaving the dock. One of them is they never have the right of way. The smaller more maneuverable the power boat the lower on the pecking order it is. Never assume that someone will dodge you. Get out of way.


Now you can enjoy the water in a whole new way. Grab your friends get on your PWC and head out to the water to enjoy a fun and safe personal watercraft experience.

Operation Dry Water

Imagine this, a warm day the sun glistening off the water, and a powerboat at hand. Now that sounds like a fun day on the water, but adding alcohol to the mix can turn a fun day into a tragic day. That is why Operation Dry Water was born. Operation Dry Water is a national boating under the influence (BUI) awareness and enforcement campaign. This years campaign runs this weekend June 28-30.

The National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA), working with the states, the U.S. Coast Guard and other partner agencies, coordinate the event each year. Are you wondering what you can do to participate during Operation Dry Water (ODW)?  You can start by taking the pledge to never boat under the influence. After taking the pledge, boaters will receive a sticker that can be placed on their boat, car, etc. which will signify that the boater is a supporter of ODW and an advocate for responsible boating. As a boater, we ask that you support the efforts of the USCG, NASBLA, and local law enforcement by educating friends and families about Operation Dry Water and the dangerous of BUI. Most importantly we ask that you live by the pledge and never Boat Under the Influence! 

Participating Law Enforcement agencies are asked to increase BUI enforcement during the targeted weekend. This can be done by focusing on a particular body of water, by increasing patrols in several locations, by conducting BUI checkpoints in one or more locations or through a combination of these activities. Agencies are also asked to work with their local media to make the public aware of the event and the hazards of Boating Under the Influence of alcohol and drugs. Make sure to willingly comply to the requests made by participating agencies to continue to enjoy your time on the water safely.

17% of boating fatalities are a direct result of alcohol. Use Operation Dry Water this weekend to help spread the word that alcohol and boating do not mix.

Tools to Keep On Board

It’s always best to be prepared when on your boat. Carrying US Coast Guard mandated safety items is a must, but carrying a tool kit with you is also a good idea. Here are a few basic tools you should keep in your tool kit onboard at all times.



Waterproof Box: You need something to put the tools in! A box with compartments will help keep your tools organized and handy, but will also protect items from water damage.



Canvas Snap Tool: Easily align and fasten inside and outside snaps. Perfect for canvas work - without damaging the canvas.



Duct Tape: Everyone knows that duct tape can fix anything - at least temporarily!



Manuals: Chances are, if you need your tool kit, you’ll also need your manual – whether for your engine, plumbing, ventilation, or just your boat in general. You should keep these manuals in your tool box with your tools so that you don’t have to search for them when you truly need them. Keep these in a large plastic zip lock bag so that they don’t get wet.



Wrenches: Make sure you have several different sizes with you if you aren’t quite sure of the exact sizes that you’ll need.



Screwdrivers: Pick up one of those handy dandy 11-in-1 screwdriver sets at your local hardware store – you’ll thank yourself later.



Canvas Repair Kit: This kit should include small pieces of canvas, needles and string.



Super Glue: Because just like duct tape, it can fix anything when you’re in a pickle.



Multi-Tool: Having a small multi-functional tool (like a Swiss army knife) on board can definitely come in handy. Many of these tools include small screw drivers, scissors, knives of all sizes and more.



Socket Set: If you have the room for a complete set, perfect. If not, figure out the sizes you need for your on-board equipment and keep them in the tool kit.



Spare Flashlight: Include fresh batteries. Make sure your flashlight is waterproof and floats.



Make sure you keep your tool kit in a place where you can easily access it, especially in a time of emergency. If you have to use something in your tool kit (such as a spare part) or if something in your tool kit breaks, be sure to replace it as soon as you get back to dock. 

What items do you keep on board in a tool kit?

A New Kind of Jet Boat

Just last month, we announced that we had become the dealer in the Quad Cities for Yamaha Boats. And by the dealer, we mean the only dealer. We're your exclusive Yamaha Boats dealer in the area. Well, just a few days ago, our first Yamaha jet boats arrived. And we can't wait for you to stop by and check them out. 




Want to learn a little about these unique boats? Look no further!

All Yamaha jet boats have many things in common. Their trailers have swing away tongues, a standard bimini top and removeable carpet. They also have a neat integrated swim platform with two rear facing seats so you can lounge inches from the water (while idle, of course!). There are definite benefits to Yamaha's jet propulsion too. The jet units allow you to navigate shallower waters than a standard inboard would, because there is no exposed lower stern drive unit. This also adds a level of safety and comfort for those swimming off your boat. In addition, jet propulsion equals faster planing. 

But now on to the two boats we have in our showroom. First, the  242 Limited S. This 24 ft boat can seat 11 and has a 50 gallon fuel capacity. It features bow docking lights to make those evening dock tie ups a bit easier, and has an adjustable convertible lounger so you have the option of lounging or sitting. The forward tilting tower on this boat is also equipped with built-in speakers and LED lights.

We also have an SX 210, a 21 ft model that can seat 9. This boat has an oversized in-floor storage locker, perfect for your wakeboarding or other watersport gear. The bow area has versatile seating arrangements so you can create any sort of set up you'd like. There is also a great stereo system complete with a CD player, MP3 compatability and a handy remote control. Finally, this boat has a redesigned helm that looks cool and has easy to read gauges.

Which of these boats would you like to check out?

Welcome to Our Blog!

Welcome to our new blog! We'll be posting once a month or so about a variety of boating issues, topics, currents events and more. But more on that in a bit.




First, let's educate you on us! We are Tempo Marine, your premier boat, watercraft and ATV dealer in East Moline, Illinois. We specialize in the sales and service of Sea Ray, Bayliner, Maxum and Yamaha boats, Crest Pontoons, Yamaha and Sea Doo PWCs, Can-Am ATVs and Spyder Roadsters. Whether you're looking for a new boat, used boat, new personal watercraft, or used personal watercraft, be sure to preview our online inventory or stop by the dealership and check us out. Tempo Marine also offers a full service and parts department. We are a Premier Service center for Mercury Outboards and Mercruiser sterndrives. 

Check out our Location & Hours page for our address, driving directions, phone number, and business hours. If you're looking to buy a new or used boat or watercraft, or just have general questions about our dealership, get in touch with us by filling out our Contact Us form or calling us at 309-752-0868. Want an overview of the Tempo Marine website to quickly find what you need? Go to our Sitemap.

So now that you know about us, we want to know something about you: what sorts of things would you like us to write about? Are there tips and tricks you'd like us to share? Current events you want us to explore? Our ears are open!

Here's to lots of blogging!