The winter is the period when you don’t have to use your boat. As a result of this, it is usually crucial to store the boat in a clean, safe location till the summer when you can cruise with it once again. So, what are the ways you can explore to store your boat for the winter? Check out these 10+ tips for storing your boat for the winter:
1. Check if there are any problems with your boat
As you are preparing to store your boat, you should ride it for the last time. Listen to the engine and notice if there is any problem that requires repairs. If there is any issue, make sure you repair it before it is stored for the winter.
2. Drain all parts
It is likely that water tanks, pipes, bilge, seacocks, and head of your boat are filled with water already. It is essential to drain all these parts before you store the boat for the winter. Use antifreeze products to prevent water tanks and bilge from freezing.
3. Take a look at the various parts of the boat
Assess the engine oil, hoses, filters, clamps, steering cables and lines, and belts. Note any problem and fix it. Also, you should refill the lubricant tank.
4. Fill up the gasoline
Before storing your boat, ensure you fill its gas tank to its fullest level. Then add a fuel stabilizer as you run the engine for the last time. This will prevent condensation that an empty tank usually causes during the winter.
5. Clean the boat
Don’t store a dirty boat as it will be more difficult to clean after the winter. So, make sure you clean both the inside and outside of your boat. A vinyl cleaner and pressure washer will come in handy at this stage.
6. Use a boat cover
Irrespective of where your boat is stored, it is still not entirely free from some environmental elements such as moisture, dust, and dirt. Therefore, consider using a boat cover to protect it.
COVER-TECH’s high-quality boat covers
are recommended for this purpose.
7. Remove any flammable or valuable objects
Is there any flammable object inside the boat? Ensure you remove all flammable objects before storing the boat. Also, all valuable objects must be removed.
8. Remove the battery
Storing your boat with its battery intact will likely damage the battery due to corrosion. Therefore, you must remove the battery. Spray it with anti-corrosion product and store in a clean, dry place.
9. Don’t let the tires touch the ground
If the tires touch the ground throughout the winter, they may be damaged. So, you should try to place your boat on pieces of wood, blocks, or any other items that will prevent the tires from being deflated and damaged.
10. Keep in a portable garage
You don’t necessarily have to store your boat in any commercial storage facility. Just get
COVER-TECH’s portable storage
and safeguard your boat anywhere you want.
11. Lubricate the moving parts
Linkages, latches, hinges, and propellers should be lubricated from time to time. Always use a moisture-displacing lubricant for these parts.
12. Check it regularly
Even after you have done everything listed above, you should understand that boat may still encounter some issues during the winter. Therefore, you should check it every few weeks.
With the tips above, you should be able to store your boat for the winter without encountering any problem.