W
I N T E R I Z A T I O N
A N D
S
T O R A G E
7–4
• Remove any detachable and valuable equipment such as electronics. Store all electronics
inside. Your compass should be covered for the winter. Ultraviolet rays from the sun will cloud
the compass and make it difficult to read.
• Winterize all equipment as directed in the manufacturer’s manuals.
• Store cushions indoors to prevent mildew.
• Clean the exterior and interior of the boat. Remove all grease, oil, salt spray, etc.
• Remove garbage. Clean storage areas, fish boxes, and livewells. Prop fishbox lids open.
• Lubricate hinges, valves, the backs of electrical panels, and other surfaces that will rust.
• Check underwater items. Hardware should be in good condition and tight.
• Inspect electrical systems and have any repairs performed.
G
ETTING
B
OAT
O
UT
A
FTER
S
TORAGE
Before placing your boat in the water for the boating season, have the hull bottom sanded and
reapply anti-fouling bottom paint if necessary. Leave as much equipment and personal effects as
possible off the boat until after launch and final check.
P
RIOR
T
O
L
AUNCHING
Start your own personalized list of items to check and perform prior to placing your boat in
the water. The following list will give you some ideas and suggestions:
• Check all gear and replace if necessary.
• Check thru hull fittings for cleanliness, damage, and tightness.
• Check prop installation and tightness.
• Clean battery terminal posts with a wire brush or bronze wool. Install batteries, attach cables,
and tighten. Apply grease to post to exclude air and acid.
• Check all wire connections for contact corrosion and tightness.
• Check hull valves for easy operation and for condition of hose.
• Check operation of bilge pumps in manual and automatic modes.
• Check shower sump pump.
• Check operation of all AC (if applicable) and DC circuits.
• Check the hoses on the fresh water system, and close all valves, fill fresh water system and
check for leaks.
• Perform maintenance on engines according to the manufacturer’s manuals prior to returning
them to service.
• Check all engine and steering control cables and linkage for operation. Lubricate cables and
linkage as necessary.
• Check safety equipment including flares, fire extinguisher and first aid kits. Replace items as
necessary.
A
FTER
L
AUNCHING
• With the boat in the water, check all sources of possible leaks stem to stern.
