Winterizing Your Boat
Now that it’s fall, it’s time to start prepping your boat for winter, especially if you store the boat yourself.
Keep in mind that even if you use your boat all winter long, you will still need to pay extra attention to certain parts of your boat or any items on board. While we did list some tips on how to winterize your boat, it’s important to also reference your boats owners manual to read any specific tips and information regarding your make and model.
1. Your Outboard Engine
It’s important to make sure you drain all the water from your cooling system. You can do this by tilting the outboard engine in the down position and keep it there. You can cover it as well, but make sure there is ventilation to avoid any build up of moisture.
Tip 1: Consult your owners manual for the boat as every manufacture is different with their winterizing methods.
Tip 2: If your boat will be stored all winter long, pay extra attention to the engines internals and make sure there is no corrosion build up.
Tip 3: Keep an eye on the oil. Make sure there is no water build up.
Some people feel the best way to winterize their outboard, is to keep using it. If you live in an area where you can boat every couple weeks throughout the winter, make sure you’re using it long enough for it reach normal operation temperature.
2. Fuel System
Don’t use ethanol blended fuel to winterize your tank. This could lead to big problems when you begin using your boat again in the spring. One very important step is to dose your fuel tank with a high-quality fuel-stabilizing additive.
Tip 1: Change the engine fuel filters and any water/fuel separators in the system. Do not REMOVE the water/fuel separator, only CHANGE it. Removing it (instead of changing it) could cause water and debris to get into the filter and cause damage to your filter internal components.
Tip 2: Run the engines every now and then so the fuel flows through the system.
3. Stern Drive
Stern Drives may be a little more complicated than the outboard drive when it comes to Winterizing. You’ll want to make sure all water is out of the engine’s block AND the drive unit. You will also need to run antifreeze through the drive and engine. Every make and model is different, so make sure you consult your owners manual first.
Tip 1: Remove the block plugs — this will allow water to drain and will help remove sediments that can gather inside.
Tip 2: Inspect your clamps, bellows, hoses, and any other parts that can show wear after a season of use.
Tip 3: Fogging treatment is needed for stern drives. Bring the engine up to operating temperature before fogging it. This will help get rid of any moisture. This is a good time to do an oil change and to inspect any parts or pieces that may need a replacement
4. Plumbing System
Once your power system is taken care of, now you need to focus on the plumbing system.
Tip 1: With a freshwater system, sinks, tanks, and heads need to be drained of water and have antifreeze run through. You can do this by opening all faucets until the freshwater tank is empty. Close it back up and then add the antifreeze.
Tip 2: If your boat has a hot water heater, run both hot and cold water through the faucets to make sure the anti-freeze has worked its way through the heater.
Tip 3: Pump out holder tanks and run anti-freeze through those as well. Make sure you also empty the portable MSD.
Tip 4: Remember that any part that holds water NEEDS to be drained down for the winter. Don’t forget about your bilges. Drain plugs should also be removed (if your boat is on dry land). Inspect the belowdecks to make sure the boat’s positioned to drain properly.
Once these steps are taken care of, you’re ready to cover your boat. You can relax and start counting down the days until spring so you can prep your boat for a new boating season!