Winterizing your boat is a key part of protecting it during storage and ensuring it performs well when the next boating season begins. Without proper care, boats left unused for extended periods can develop corrosion, cracks, and other damage that may be costly to repair.
Whether you live in a cold climate or are taking your boat out of the water for an extended break, following a thorough winterization process helps keep your watercraft in great condition. Use this guide to prepare your boat for storage and enjoy worry-free boating when it’s time to hit the water again.
Review the Owner’s Manual
The first step is to review your owner’s manual thoroughly and follow its instructions. Each boat has specific recommendations, and it’s important to adhere to the guidelines tailored to your boat for how to prep your inboard engine, outboard motor, or sterndrive.
Inboard engines are mounted inside the hull, the body of the boat. An outboard motor is an all-in-one unit positioned on the back of the boat, which is known as the stern.
A sterndrive, also referred to as an inboard/outboard (I/O) engine, is a marine engine that combines elements of both inboard engines and outboard engines. The engine is mounted inside the boat near the stern with a drive unit that extends through the transom, the cross-section of the stern, to power a propeller. This offers the power of an inboard engine with the maneuverability of an outboard motor.
Add Antifreeze and Fogging Oil
Regardless of the engine you have, you’ll need to take the following steps to keep it in optimal condition.
- Replace the engine’s fuel filter.
- Have proper levels of engine oil, antifreeze, coolant, steering fluid, transmission/lower unit fluid, and outdrive oil.
- Inspect the fuel lines and replace any that show signs of wear and tear.
- Apply fogging oil, an aerosol spray that is designed to prevent rust and protect internal engine components during long periods of inactivity.
Drain Water Lines and the Engine
In freezing conditions, water can freeze and expand, damaging your boat and leading to costly repairs. That’s why it’s important to make sure you drain out any water left in pipes, plumbing lines, holding lines, sewage tanks, or the engine.
Add Fuel Stabilizer to the Fuel Tank
Fuel stabilizer is a solution of antioxidants and lubricants designed to repel water and limit evaporation. Since gasoline expires in 3 to 6 months, adding a small amount of fuel stabilizer will keep your fuel fresh and effective.
Simply fill up the fuel tank with fresh fuel and top it off with the designed amount of stabilizer. Then start the engine and allow it to run for 10 minutes. The stabilizer mixed with the fuel will run through the fuel lines, fuel injector, or carburetor, preventing gummy deposits.
Clean the Boat’s Interior and Exterior
Using a hose or pressure washer and a hull cleaner, if needed, clean the hull of marine growth, algae, and grime. This will ensure you have a clean surface come spring when it’s time to repaint the bottom with antifouling paint.
Inside, thoroughly clean the kitchen, cabin, head (toilet), and helm (steering station) with a non-skid deck cleaner. Inspect equipment on board to ensure they are working properly, and check any lockers or storage areas, including the fridge or freezer.
Cover Your Boat
The final step in winterizing your boat is ensuring it is shielded from harsh weather. It can be shrink-wrapped for the highest level of protection, or use a durable canvas cover or keep it secure at a storage facility. This level of protection from snow, ice, and debris will help preserve your boat’s condition so it’s ready to hit the water come spring.
Refill Your Marine Fuel Tank With Ease
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The flexible nozzle empties a five-gallon gas can in as little as 35 seconds and fits most gas cans and water jugs. This kit includes a spout, spout cap, tether, 8″ spout extension for those hard-to-reach tanks, 1/2” replacement push-in vent, flame arrestor, and yellow and black base caps.
You can use this kit to easily refuel boats, as well as ATVs, farming equipment, diesel trucks, and gas tanks with wider openings. Simply head on over to our website or visit one of our retailers to find yours today!