So, I guess it's that time again to start thinking about putting the boat away for the season. Wanted to start a list of things to do for winterizing. Please add some of your own, and if you've got any handy ideas!
1. Fill gas tank and put in Stabil or Sea Foam
2. Run engine temporarily to help get out all water
3. Spray Fog into the cylinders
4. Make sure all livewells, bilge, and ski lockers are dry
5. Clean out all leftover snacks so mice don't find them
6. Put some mothballs or dryer sheets in the boat for a mouse detererant.
7. If you don't have an onboard charger, take out batteries and put them inside. Make sure not to leave them sitting on bare concrete.
8. Take out all lures, rods, reels etc. for later wintertime cleaning and changing/sharpening of hooks.
1) marine Rv non-toxic antifreeze into the livewells if you've used them in the late fall.
2) change oil in COOL Hubs or grease wheel berrings on trailer
3) check tires and fill to max psi for winter
4) use marine grade grease on all fittings of hydraulic steering, Jackplate,kicker etc…
5) change lower unit gearcase oil or check for water so it doesn't freeze. Replace old seals with new ones.
6) if keeping batteries in boat with inboard charger give them a quick charge every month or so. The colder weather will hold charge longer
7) I'm lucky enough to have a auto-winterizing feature that makes it super simple and quick but check and replace your plugs, impeller and filter
8) remove prop, inspect, use grease and replace.
9) As Jim said, use Bounce Dryer sheets in all compartments, tight spots, prop etc.. To keep winter mice away.
10) Cry because soon there will be no more soft water.
"Steve S" said:
Since I was a Weenie and put mine away early and don't have a garage. When your running this late there is a amount of water in the bottom of the engine. I take it most of you have garages. If you don't, dosen't this freeze and make it hard to start. Does it hurt the engine?
Doesn't matter if you have a heated garage or not, a half hour drive in 20 degrees freezes everything fast. Every time you take it out of the water late in the season you need to get the water out before you leave the ramp. To get the water out tilt the engine all the way down and let it drain out while you are putting everything away. Then run the motor for a few seconds to pump any remaining water out of the cooling system.
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