W
I N T E R I Z A T I O N A N D
S
T O R A G E
7–2
For outdoor storage, a canvas cover should be used to prevent “sweating”. One method is to
build a frame over the boat to support the canvas. It should be a few inches wider than the boat so
the canvas will clear the rails and allow passage of air. The cover should be fastened securely so
that winds cannot remove it or cause it to chafe the boat. A poor covering job will eventually cost
more than the price of a well-made cover.
C
LEANING
A
ND
L
UBRICATING
T
HE
B
OAT
Clean and wax the boat before storage. If your boat stays in the water, there may be a layer of
growth on the bottom. This debris will harden as it dries. Clean, scrub, and scrape the bottom
promptly when the boat is removed from the water. Thoroughly remove all marine growth and
other foreign matter from the hull. Clean the inside of hull openings, thru hull fittings, and
scupper drains. Inspect the hull bottom for damage.
Check cleats and rails for corrosion and tightness. Clean all stainless steel as directed under
“Cleaning” on page 6–1
. Use a good quality metal preservative like T-9® on all metal surfaces to
prevent salt water damage. Check all hinges for corrosion — lubricate hinges as necessary. Check
for loose silicone, hinges, and unseated gaskets; replace or tighten where necessary. Heavy seas
pounding and twisting the hull can cause leaks in your windows, doors, and hatches.
D
RAINING
A
ND
W
ATER
S
YSTEMS
Remove the garboard drain plug and open all valves and seacocks to keep the bilge dry. Store
your boat with the bow elevated for drainage.
Drain all water tanks, lines, and pumps to prevent freeze damage. The fresh water system may
be drained by running any faucet until the tank is empty. When empty, turn the water pump off to
prevent damage. Residual water will not damage the tank. If desired, the fresh water system may
have a non-toxic antifreeze added. This antifreeze can be purchased at marine or camping
dealership.
To drain other lines, close seacocks and run the pumps until the lines are dry. Open the
seacocks after lines are dry. Draining will help prevent water stagnation in warmer climates.
H
EAD
S
YSTEM
Empty upper tank and holding tank making sure all water is cleared. Reference Owner’s
Packet for manufacturer’s information on winterization. Water should be removed from deck
pump-out lines.
W A R N I N G
If the boat is shrink wrapped with plastic during storage, the fuel fill and vent fitting must be
outside of the enclosure to prevent the trapping of dangerous fumes or spillage from thermal
expansion.
!