The start of winter is just a few weeks away. That means it is time to start considering how you will prepare your boat for the colder weather. Follow these steps to keep your boat in good condition and have a quick, easy startup when the warm weather returns.
Replace Engine Oil
Drain your engine so that moisture and acids in old oil do not pit bearings and other engine parts while in storage. Warm up the engine while in water so that more dirty oil and impurities are able to flush out easily. Use high-quality oil and filters as recommended by your engine’s manufacturer. Change the oil and filter before storing for 4-stroke outboard motors.
Flush and Drain Cooling Water
Water must be drained from the engine to prevent damage from expanding water once it freezes. For inboard and sterndrive engines, use water muffs to connect a garden hose to your cooling system and flush the engine with clean water. Flush until the engine reaches normal operating temperature, then remove the drain plugs. You may need to remove the water pump hose as well. For outboard engines, make sure all drain holes are open and start the engine. Flush the cooling system with fresh water.
Stabilize Fuel
Add a high-quality marine fuel stabilizer to prevent fuel deterioration, which can cause gum and varnish to build up in your engine. Then fill the tank with fresh fuel and run the engine for a few minutes, allowing treated gas to flow through the system. Do this either while your boat is in the water or by using a fitting designed to run the engine with a garden hose.
Protect Internal Engine Components
Engine oil drains away while in storage, which exposes internal engine components to harsh elements in the winter. This can eventually lead to corrosion and metal-to-metal contact known as cylinder scuffing. Use a fogging oil spray to prevent these issues, which coats parts with a protective layer of anti-corrosive compound.
Replace Gear Oil
Drain the lower unit of oil gear oil and place it with a fresh supply. Check for moisture when changing the gear oil; if water leaks out first or if you see milky or lumpy oil, this is a sign that your boat is experiencing moisture contamination.
Grease & Lubricant
Locate your engine’s grease fittings, often found in the steering mechanism area. Use a quality marine lubricant to protect against rust, corrosion, and oxidation.
Remove Valuables
Remove all valuables from your boat in the winter. It is also a good idea to insure your boat, even when it is not on the water.
Clean, Wax, Cover
Clean and wax your boat, then cover it for the season. Dry storage is the best option, but it can be expensive. Cover your boat with a durable cover or consider shrink-wrapping your boat.
Boat Lift Warehouse
Boat Lift Warehouse in Snow Hill, NC has been serving customers worldwide since 2004. We provide you with boat lifts, boat lift motors, parts, and accessories and we are dedicated to finding the right boat lift solution for you. Contact us today for all your boat lift and marine accessory needs.
