Welcraft 232 Coastal, Owner'S Manual

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Chapter 12:
SEASONAL MAINTENANCE
12.1 Lay-up and Storage
Before Hauling:
•
Pump out the head and holding tank. Flush the
holding tank using clean water and a deodorizer.
Pump out the cleaning solution.
•
• The fuel tank should be left nearly full to reduce
condensation that can accumulate in the fuel
tank. Allow enough room in the tank for the fuel
to expand without leaking out the vents.
Bacteria, commonly called algae, can grow in
the accumulated water in diesel fuel tanks. This
condition is most prevalent in warm climates.
Periods of storage or limited use allow the
bacteria to accumulate, making the situation
worse. Adding a high quality diesel fuel
conditioner containing a biocide may be required
to control bacteria in your boating area.
• The age of fuel can affect engine performance.
Chemical changes occur as the fuel ages that
can cause deposits and reduce the octane rating
of the fuel. Severely degraded fuel can damage
the engine and boat fuel tank and lines.
Therefore, if your boat is not being run enough
to require at least one full tank of fresh fuel a
month, a fuel additive should be added to
protect it from degradation. Your dealer or the
engine manufacturer can provide additional
information on fuel degradation and fuel
stabilizers recommended for your engines.
Operate the boat for at least 15 minutes after
adding the additive to allow the treated fuel to
reach the engine.
Lifting
It is essential that care be used when lifting your
boat. Make sure the spreader bar at each sling is at
least as long as the distance across the widest point
of the boat that the sling will surround. There are
sling tags on the side deck. Make sure the fore and
aft slings are located at the tags and are tied
together to prevent the slings from sliding on the
hull.
Supporting The Boat For Storage
A trailer, elevating lift, or a well-made cradle is the
best support for your boat during storage.
When supporting the boat on a trailer for a
long period:
• Make sure the trailer is on level surface and the
bow is high enough so that water will drain from
the bilge and cockpit.
• The trailer must properly support the hull. The
bunks and rollers should match the bottom of
the hull and should not be putting pressure on
the lifting strakes.
• Make sure the engine(s) are in the down position.
• Make sure the hitch is properly supported.
• Check the tires once each season. Add enough
air for the correct amount of inflation for the
tires.
Your dealer or the engine manufacturer
can provide additional information on fuel
degradation and fuel additives
recommended for your engine. For more
recommendations for your specific area,
check with your dealer.
•
Drain water from the fresh water system.
• Consult the engine owner’s manual for detailed
information on preparing the engines for storage.
Note: Read the owner’s manual for the
trailer for the correct amount of
inflation for the tires.
When storing the boat on a lift or cradle:
• The cradle must be specifically for boat storage.
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