storage
and winterization
Storage or winter lay-up requires special preparation to prevent
damage to the boat. Since winter storage is an annual event, it
presents an excellent opportunity to perform the annual mainte-
nance at this time, depending upon the amount of usage. Check
with an authorized MasterCraft dealer’s service department
regarding the boat’s needs to determine if this is the appropriate
time for annual service.
Without proper preparation, storage for long periods of time (at
any time of the year) may cause harm to various components of
the boat and drive train. Also, if the boat has been stored in be-
low-freezing temperatures with water inside the bilge or engine
cooling system (including the heater or, shower, ballast tanks,
wash down tanks, coolers, or any container or area in which wa-
ter has been located), this condition may result in major damage
from freezing, which would not be covered under the warranty.
Refer to the engine owner’s manual for guidance regarding stor-
age and winterization of the engine, transmission and compo-
nents of the drive train.
The following procedures will help avoid most potential
types of damage during storage for a period not to exceed
five (5) months!
Because of the complexity of preparing a boat for proper winter
storage, as well as the possibility of extreme damage to the drive
train if a preparation error was made during winterization, Master-
Craft recommends scheduling an appointment with an authorized
MasterCraft dealer’s service department to permit a technician to
perform all winterization procedures.
General Preparation
Before starting you will need the following supplies:
•
Sta-Bil® Gasoline Stabilizer
•
Fuel filter
•
Low tack tape
Fuel System Treatment
Step 1:
If the boat will be placed in storage with fuel (no alco-
hol in the mix) in the tank, fill the tank with fresh fuel
and a sufficient amount of Sta-Bil® gasoline stabilizer
to treat the entire tank. Follow instructions on the con-
tainer.
Step 2:
If the boat will be placed in storage with fuel that con-
tains alcohol, the fuel tank should be drained as com-
pletely as possible, the fuel disposed of properly, and
Sta-Bil gasoline stabilizer added to any fuel remaining
in the tank. Follow the directions on the container.
Step 3:
Start the engine and operate at idle until the engine
reaches normal operating temperature. (To accomplish
this, the boat must be in the water or attached to a
water supply using a hose and suitable adapter that will
allow an uninterrupted supply of water to the engine.
If using a hose and adapter, adjust the faucet to avoid
over-cooling the engine at low RPM.) Run the engine
for at least fifteen (15) minutes and ensure that the fuel
stabilizer enters the engine’s fuel system.
Step 4:
Perform the annual maintenance as described in this
Owner’s Manual.
General Power Package Preparation
Step 1:
Lubricate the throttle and shift linkages and cables with
multi-purpose grease.
Step 2:
MasterCraft recommends that batteries be removed
from the boat for winter storage. Batteries should be
fully charged before being stored in a cool, dry location,
protected from the elements and fully re-charged before
MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 17-1
