It’s about that time – you need to get your boat prepped and ready for offseason storage. Whether you live in a region where the temperatures plummet or you’re simply storing your craft away until the warm weather returns, we have some helpful suggestions for winterizing your boat to keep it protected during the offseason.
The following tips will give you a good idea of the steps you’ll need to take to prepare your boat for winter storage. However, you’ll want to follow the exact guidelines laid out in your boat’s owner’s manual for specific winterization guidelines for your craft.
Change the Engine Oil
In most cases, you’ll want to change out the oil in your boat’s engine before storing it away for winter. Old oil that sits idly in the engine for months can deteriorate the components of the engine given its acidity and any moisture that builds up.
You’ll want to warm up the engine first so you can drain as much of the existing oil and impurities as possible. Once thoroughly drained, add a new quantity of oil to the engine and a new oil filter for storage.
Remove Water and Fog the Engine
Another key step you’ll need to take is to remove any water that might still be in the engine. If this water is still present when the temperatures freeze, you could end up seriously damaging critical engine components.
For best results, adhere to the owner’s manual of the specific engine you have. Each model can differ, so make sure you follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to effectively clear out any water before winter.
You’ll also want to fog the engine to keep all components protected from corrosion-causing moisture throughout the winter.
Stabilize the Fuel
You will need to add a fuel stabilizer to the fuel tank when your boat will be sitting unused for a few months. In just a month or two, the fuel in the tank can start to go bad and lead to build-up in the fuel tank. When this occurs, it can impact your engine’s performance and lifespan once you start to use the craft again in the spring.
Find a high-quality marine fuel stabilizer to add to the tank. See if your boat’s manufacturer has a recommended brand and quantity. Then, you will want to top off the tank with more fuel. For best results, run the engine after you’ve added the stabilizer to ensure the treated gas makes its way through the entire system before it gets stored away.
Clean and Cover Your Boat
Once you’ve taken care of all the mechanical components, you’ll want to clean your boat thoroughly both on the interior and exterior. Make sure you remove any dirt, debris, salt, and other buildup to prevent any serious stains or damage over the winter. You can add a protective wax coating to the hull and other metal surfaces for better protection.
At this point, remove any electronics or valuables from the boat so they can be stored indoors over the winter. Once all your prep work is complete, cover your craft with a high-quality boat cover or shrink wrap to protect the interior from the elements. Transport the boat to its winter storage location, and ensure it’s securely stored before you leave it for the coming months.
Again, these are just some of the main steps you’ll need to take to winterize your boat. If you have specific questions about your craft or you don’t feel comfortable taking care of winterization yourself, consult your boat’s owner’s manual for specific recommendations, or hire a professional team to ensure your boat is properly winterized.
