W
I N T E R I Z A T I O N
A N D
S
T O R A G E
7–1
C h a p t e r 7 : W i n t e r i z a t i o n a n d S t o r a g e
G
ENERAL
Boats stored during the winter or for an extended period of time require some routine
maintenance. The boat and its systems should be checked for maintenance and repairs prior to and
during the storage process. Arrange repairs during the storage period to reduce downtime during
your boating season.
Avoid costly damage and delay when launching your boat by having it stored and winterized
properly. This information is presented as a general guide; the actual storage should be performed
by a professional and qualified dealership. See page 61, in
Sportfish, Cruisers, Yachts Owner’s
Manual
for a checklist on winterizing and storage.
B
OAT
S
TORAGE
Grady-White boats are equipped with stern eyes and a bow eye. These eyes are for anchoring
and trailering purposes, and should be inspected regularly to insure structural integrity.
STo avoid personal injury and property damage, it is advised to take extra precautions when
lifting or moving the boat for storage.
While transporting a boat by a lift or fork lift, the structure should remain as close to ground
level as possible. If slings are necessary for lifting or transporting, they should be in proper
condition and tied together to prevent any movement (separating or slipping) which could cause
damage to the boat. If fork lifts are used to move the boat, the forks should be padded, contoured
to match the hull bottom, and in a secure location under the hull in alignment with the stringers.
The forks should be long enough to prevent the boat from rocking forward and aft causing it to
become unbalanced. Always verify the fork lift’s capacity to ensure it is sufficient for the weight
of the boat. Other conditions that should be considered before hauling, transporting, or storing
your boat include overhead lines, ground conditions (frozen or soft), and storm conditions that
may arise.
When storing your boat on the trailer, raise and block the trailer axle to prevent tire
deterioration. This is an excellent time to lubricate and pack the wheel bearings per the
manufacturer’s instructions.
Make sure the keel, chines and transom are fully supported. Indoor storage is beneficial
particularly if your climate produces freezing weather. The storage unit should not be airtight, but
should be ventilated. Ventilation is extremely important both around and through the boat.
W A R N I N G
The boat should not be lifted for storage using the bow and stern eyes.
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