Winterizing
Laying Up for the Winter
What is most important when prepping for the winter can be summed up by conditions. If it is going to freeze, winterizing the engine and any systems that have water in them, is the absolute minimum you will need to do. Any trace of water can cause havoc whether in an engine, toilet, bilge, outboard, air conditioning or running water systems.
If you have the space it is recommended that you remove as much ancillary gear from the boat. This stops the gear from getting cold damp and helps air move around the boat. It also stops certain items getting stolen. Check your insurance policy.If you are having the boat pulled for the winter, most of the winterizing can be done in the water. The engine may be needed to get to the lift so that can be done onshore and engine mechanics have the tools to winterize on land.
Below is a fairly comprehensive list of projects that will help you in the spring. These are fairly general projects. If you are unsure about a particular system you should consult an expert at your boatyard.
Laying Up for the Winter
Antifreeze
Marine antifreeze comes in three different temperatures, -50, -60 and -100. At these temperatures the antifreeze will solidify. Glycol content increases from 30% for -50 to 60% for -100.
Propylene Glycol is more environmentally friendly. Do not use automotive type antifreeze, as they are toxic.
Topics include
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- Boat System Winterization
- Inboard Engine
- I/O drives
- Outboards
- Fuel tanks
- Ventilation
- Onboard Systems
- Onboard Water systems
- Seacocks
- Empty Bilge
- Electrical & Batteries
- Electronics Systems
- Deck gear
- Sails & Rigging
- Steering Systems
- Cleaning the Boat
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