Tag: dewinterize your boat

Warm Weather Is Here – How to De-Winterize Your Boat

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

Spring is here; it is time to de-winterize your boat. Within this article, you will find out what you need to do in order to de-winterize your boat the right way.

It is a detailed list that will guide you through the process and you will be boating and enjoying this warm weather in no time.

Step 1: Engine

You will need to begin with the engine. If the engine was not changed before the winter months, you will need to change the engine oil. Check out the out-drive oil as well to ensure everything is good to go. You will also need to replace the oil filter.

Step 2: Battery

You will then check the battery in your boat. If there is water in the battery, make sure that it is full. If the battery is dry, then you will need to replace the battery. Use a tester to check the amps and volts.

If you find that there is issues with the battery, take the old battery to the store and trade it in for proper disposal and purchase a new one.

Step 3: Cooling System

Next will be filling up the cooling system. You should have emptied this before the winter months to ensure it did not freeze. Ensure that you examine all of the hoses and make sure there are no cracks. You will also need to empty out the strainer.

Step 4: Gas Tank

You will need to ensure that there has been no moisture forming in the tank. Ensure that the fuel filter is changed, as well as no cracks present in the lines. It is not uncommon to see the lines crack from the freezing temperatures of winter

Step 5: Distributor

You will need to check the distributor as well. In order to do this, you will need to take off the cap. The winter months cause distributors to corrode. Once you have made sure the distributor is good, make sure to hook it back up properly.

Step 6: Boat Belts

The last thing that you will need to do is to check the boat’s belts. Any belt that is on the boat should be checked to ensure that it is not loose. If it is loose, then it means it is worn and needs to be replaced.

In order to check the belt to see if it is worn, push down on it slightly. One belt that needs to be replaced more often than not is the alternator belt. It will wear out a lot faster than other belts on the boat.

Another way to tell if the belt is worn out is to look at the pulley. If there is a material that resembles soot on it, then it is the belt wearing down. Replace this belt.

Remember, de-winterizing your boat is important before you take it out onto the water. It is as important as winterizing your boat before freezing weather sets in.

This list should be done the month when spring hits. It will give you a chance to make any repairs to ensure your safety when going onto the water.

How to Winterize Your Boat for the Off Season

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

a boat covered and prepared for winterIf you own a home right on the lake, then you may be lucky enough to have direct access to the water.

There’s nothing quite like being able to walk out of your lake home, onto the dock, and right on to your boat!

In light of colder weather, though, you might not be taking it out as often. This is especially true if you’re on a lake that can freeze during the winter time.

Exposure to harsh temperatures for an extended period of time can threaten your boat’s health. We suggest you winterize it to minimize any damage from occurring.

Winterize Your Boat, Protect Your Investment

  • Fill your boat’s fuel tank – Ensure the boat’s fuel tank is filled roughly to capacity. But remember, don’t fill it all the way up! Leave a little space to allow for the expansion that often occurs during cold weather. Don’t forget to add gasoline stabilizer, as well. This will help keep your boat’s fuel from degrading during the winter. It also slows down the oxidation process in addition to preventing varnish and corrosion.
  • Close your boat’s fuel valves – To avoid condensation from occurring inside the fuel tank, be sure to close the fuel valves. You’ll also want to replace the fuel filter and water separator. Afterwards, seal all thru-port exhaust ports using duct tape.
  • Coat your boat’s spark plugs – Remove the engine flame arrester and, while the engine is running, shoot two-cycle oil into the carburetor. In order to burn any excess fuel, turn the fuel supply off. To coat the spark plugs, spin the engine a few times. Replace the plugs but don’t connect any of the wires. These steps will prevent the pistons of the boat from being exposed to air and dampness.
  • Fill your boat’s engine block – First, make sure all leftover engine coolant is drained from the engine block. Then fill it with antifreeze. Be sure to use antifreeze that’s appropriate for the model of your boat.Antifreeze for boat winterization
  • Change the gear oil of your boat’s engine – If your boat contains an inboard/outdrive engine, you’ll want to flush the lower unite gear case lubricant and replace it to keep the engine’s internal parts from becoming damaged by water.
  • Remove the boat’s battery – Before taking the battery out of your boat, ensure that it’s fully charged. Store the battery in a place that is safe and dry for the remainder of the winter.
  • Check the boat’s propeller and hub – Inspect the blades for damage or severe wear and tear. Replace or repair anything that’s too damaged.boat propeller
  • Protect your boat’s plugs and bulb sockets – Use a moisture-displacing lubricant to coat the plugs and bulb sockets’ contact points. With electrical tape, cover the plugs to keep them dry for the remainder of winter.
  • Clean your boat – After following these steps, clean it one more time to remove any surface dirt that might have collected. Before you start, make sure the cleaning solutions you’re about to use are appropriate for the boat. For the most part, over-the-counter glass cleaners, vinyl cleaners and vinegar and water solutions should be safe and effective.
  • Cover your boat – Lastly, cover the boat with a waterproof tarp or canvas to protect it from rain, snow, ice, and other debris.

Winterizing your boat is incredibly important. Exposure to harsh winter weather can be damaging to what may be one of your biggest investments. Be sure to use these tips to ensure your boat will survive the off-season and be ready to hit the water running next year!