Chaparral 2009 Signature 250, Owner'S/Operator'S Manual

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This chapter tells you how to winterize and store your Chaparral
boat in regions where temperatures fall below freezing. If you keep
your boat in an area not requiring winter storage, Chaparral recom-
mends you perform an annual inspection, similar to the preparation
for storage as indicated in this chapter. With proper care, you will
have many years of enjoyable boating with your Chaparral boat.
LIFTING THE BOAT
Unless your boat is trailerable, have your dealer or qualified marina
personnel lift your boat out of the water for you. Each boat has main
frame components designed to support the boat when it is being
lifted out of the water. Severe gelcoat crazing or more serious hull
damage can occur if the lifting slings exert pressure on the gun-
wales. Flat, wide belting-type slings should be used. Don’t use
cable-type slings. The spreader bar at each sling should be as long
as the distance across the widest point the sling surrounds.
• Never hoist the boat with more than a minimal amount of water
in the bilge.
• Before lifting the boat, empty fuel and water tanks, especially if
they have large capacities.
• Be sure to position slings as indicated by the diagrams in
Chapter 3.
• Do not use deck cleats or bow or stern eyes for lifting the boat.
• Be sure boat remains level while being lifted to avoid sling
movement or boat damage.
• If using any boat lifting device other than slings, position lifting
device so as not to put pressure on any underwater hull compo-
nent including trim tabs.
Cradle
A cradle is the ideal support for your boat whenever it is not in the
water. Properly designed and located, the cradle will support the
boat under the main frames. Support at these points is essential for
preventing damage to the hull. Purchase a cradle from your dealer
to ensure that your boat has the correct support.
DRY STORAGE PREPARATION
Note: Refer to Chapter 8, Interior and Exterior Care, for specific
cleaning solutions and procedures.
Deck
• Wash the deck and walkway surfaces.
• Clean all deck hardware, and apply a coat of rust inhibitor.
• Clean the indoor/outdoor carpet.
Hull
• Scrape off any barnacles or crusted marine growth.
• Scrub hull thoroughly to remove marine growth, scum and
loose bottom paint.
WINTERIZING AND STORAGE 9
9-1
WARNING: Lift slings may slip on the hull and result in serious
injury or death from dropped load. Exercise extreme caution if in
the vicinity of such activity. If possible, slings should be tied
together before lifting.