MARLOW-HUNTER MH31, Operator'S Manual

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Maintenance
14.11
for signs of wear, deterioration, or damage. Note any
damage to the propulsion equipment, helm area, cabin,
etc. Make repairs, if at all possible, before covering
your boat.
Fill the fuel tanks with treated fuel to prevent condensa-
tion. If you use a stabilizer or conditioner, be sure to
follow the instructions on the container.
IMPORTANT: Do not overfill fuel tanks so fuel flows from the
vent. Allow room in the tanks for fuel to expand.
Prepare the Engines for Storage:
In areas where temperatures fall below freezing, the
bilge area under the engines must be pumped out and
sponged completely dry. Check for areas that did not
drain to the pumps. Drain mufflers.
NOTE: Refer to the engine owner’s manual for winterization
and storage procedures (i.e. water drainage from the engine
block, etc.).
Prepare the Batteries for Storage:
Be sure main battery switch breakers are off.
Remove batteries from boat and store in area where
temperatures remain above freezing.
Place batteries on a wooden pallet or bench.
Keep batteries charged. Check electrolyte levels regu-
larly. Add electrolyte if needed.
Prepare Holding Tank for Storage:
Empty and rinse holding tank until tank is clean.
Close head intake valve and remove hose.
Pour the nontoxic antifreeze into the head and keep
flushing the head until the antifreeze reaches the hold-
ing tank.
Prepare the Fresh Water System for Storage:
Remove the fresh water supply by opening the hot
and cold faucets in the galley for 10 minute intervals.
Repeat until the fresh water tank is empty.
Open all faucets in the galley, shower, cockpit shower,
etc.
Drain the water heater. Disconnect lines from the
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engine heat exchanger. Drain exchanger and lines.
Remove hot and cold water lines and hook them
together.
Remove inlet hose from tank and insert it into a con-
tainer of nontoxic antifreeze. Turn pump on. Starting
at faucet furthest from pump, open all faucets until
antifreeze flows out.
Turn off pump and reconnect hose to water heater and
pump.
Prepare Interior of Boat for Storage:
To keep mildew from forming, remove all items that
will hold moisture ( PFD’s, towels, blankets, clothing,
canvas, etc.).
Make sure all garbage is removed.
Clean the inside of the boat. Clean cabinets, drawers,
cupboards, storage areas and all surfaces. Allow cabin
area to dry and air for at least one day if possible.
Stand or prop up mattresses and cushions remaining
on board to allow good air circulation around them.
Hang life preserver and other equipment to prevent
mildew.
Remove any detachable and valuable equipment and
electronics.
Prepare Exterior of Boat for Storage:
Apply at least one coat of anti-fouling paint. Surface
preparation will depend on the status of your bottom
paint. Follow the paint manufacturer’s recommended
procedures for preparation and application.
NOTE: This coat of paint must be applied during winterization
or before the beginning of a new boating season. Check with
your dealer for information about the paint you should use.
Apply a coat of wax to the entire boat. Put rust inhibitor
on all metal parts.
Cover the boat with a tarpaulin or mooring cover. If the
boat is stored outside, you may need to place supports
under the cover to shore up pockets where rain or snow
can collect.
14.6.4 Draining Your Boat
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