How To Winterize Your Boat

Your boat is one of your favorite possessions and an investment that you worked long and hard for. However if you live in a climate where year round boating isn't an option, you will be wise to make preparations for storing and winterizing your boat during the winter months. Many people mistakenly believe that since boats are designed to handle the pressures of the ocean, wind, and waves that it can handle a winter storm just fine, yet that couldn't be further from the truth. The elements of winter can cause serious damage to your boat and cost you more money in the long run then you would have spent in the winterization process. In fact, boats need to be winterized and your boat's manual more than likely gives you specific recommendations on how to best make those preparations. It is also a good idea to hire a professional to handle the winterization of your boat if you are too busy or feel overwhelmed with the task. The important thing is that your boat is winterized and winterized correctly.

First, you will need to decide where you will store your boat during the winter season. Your boat should not be left outside where it is exposed to the winter weather. You may find that storing your boat in a commercial storage facility is the best alternative to ensuring that your boat remains in perfect condition. However, before you store your boat, you will need to ensure that it is properly prepared for storage. Here are some of the key factors that need to be addressed when winterizing your boat.

Make sure that your boat has clean oil by changing the oil filters and flushing the boat’s engine. Make sure to run the engine before changing the oil to warm it up a bit, this helps remove any impurities that may be in the oil. Be sure not to add too much oil but only as much as the boat’s manufacturer recommends.

Fogging is a very important step to ensure that the transmission fluid is changed. This is accomplished by using fogging oil. This procedure must be performed accurately to prevent damaging your engine. If you are going to attempt this on your own, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines. If in doubt, leave it to a professional.

You will also need to pay close attention to the Stern Drive. Make sure that there is no debris attached and then drain the gear case. It is also important to make sure that there is not too much moisture in the oil. Fix any cracks that you may find and service your stern drive according to the manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations.

It is also important to add plenty of fuel to the tanks before storing. However, you should also add a fuel stabilizer. Make sure that you use the manufacturer’s instructions before you add stabilizer.

Make sure that there is no water in your fresh water system. You will need to drain all water and then add non-toxic antifreeze to the water tank and heater. Finally, make sure that you have removed and safely stored all personal belongings and removable items from the inside of your boat