How To Winterize a Boat

>Proper winterization of the drive system of your boat can help to prevent poor performance during springtime and unnecessary shelling out of money on repairs. Take note of the steps given below and follow them so that when summer comes next, you will have no problems.

Modify the Engine

The oil needs to be changed to avert corrosion and too much wear which would cause unsatisfactory fuel economy, loss of power or engine failure. You would find it easier to drain the oil if you utilize an electric oil or manual changing system. Pour in new oil as per the makers specifications.
Include Antifreeze

You can protect you engine from damage due to freezing by running antifreeze through it. The more water you drain, the greater would be the level of protection. You should make use of marine engine grade antifreeze (rated either to -100 degrees or -60 degrees). Never dilute the antifreeze as this would affect its performance.

Inboards

Prior to introducing the antifreeze, the engines must be warmed up by starting them. Once this is done, the seacock must be closed and the strainer opened to wash out the water. Introduce the antifreeze. If the inboard motor is small, a flush kit may simplify the process. In the case of larger inboards, you can start the engine and immediately pour the antifreeze in when it is still running. The engine should not be allowed to run without antifreeze for more than a couple of seconds. If there are two of you, the aforementioned method is workable but if youre alone, you could try placing the cooling hose in a large bucket containing antifreeze, after separating the hose from the thru-hull. After this, run the engine and add the antifreeze up until the time that you notice it surfacing out of the exhaust.

Outboards:

Buy a winterizing kit which includes a bucket, fittings, and hose. The fittings and hose should be connected and utilized to transfer the antifreeze into the engine after getting it out of the bucket.

Fog the Engine Cylinders

You should fog the engine to safeguard its moving parts until spring. They can either be introduced through spark plug holes keeping the engine turned over or sprayed into the carburetor as the engine is running. Seek the help of the engines manual, the manufacturer or a mechanic to determine which method is suitable for your engine.

Look After the Fuel System

There are different methods by which the fuel system of a boat can be winterized. These include complete emptying of the fuel tank, and emptying to the extent that is possible followed by refilling to keep little room behind. After the tank is full, the fuel should be treated with a stabilizer or biocide. Following this, the engine should be run for 10 minutes or till you are sure that the stabilized fuel is moving throughout the engine.

Battery Care

In the case of small boats, the batteries should be disconnected and brought home. Distilled water should be added and the batteries charged occasionally. In the case of larger boats, the batteries should be disconnected and distilled water added. The batteries should be reconnected at intervals and charged with the help of shore power.