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Winterization
Make sure the keel, chine 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. 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. 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. CLEANING AND LUBRICATING THE BOAT
.
Clean and wax
the boat before storage. If your boat stays in the water there may be a layer of growth on the
bottom. As it dries, this debris will harden. 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 MAINTENANCE. 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.
Drainage and Water Systems
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 faucet off to prevent pump 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 dealerships. To drain other lines, close
seacocks and run the pumps until the lines are dry. After lines are dry open the seacocks. In
warmer climates draining will help prevent water stagnation. Many onboard drains have back
flow balls that must be kept clean in order to consistently work as intended.
Batteries
Check the electrolyte level in your batteries and fully charge the batteries before storing. A weak
battery loses its charge more rapidly than a strong battery. Ideally, you should disconnect the
batteries and cover the terminals with grease to prevent corrosion. When replacing batteries in
the boat remove excess grease from terminals and charge as necessary before reinstalling.
Engines
Check your engine owner’s manual regarding the procedures for winterizing the engine(s).
Follow these important instructions carefully, and your engines should survive most weather
conditions. Before putting the boat back in service, change all filters and check hoses and
clamps. If you have any vibrations during the season look for loose engine bolts or damaged
propellers.
Storage Checklist
In addition to the winterization guidelines, use the following checklist as a guide for storing your
boat. Additional details should be added as needed for your personal application.
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