As the warm weather becomes a distant memory, you may be considering placing your boat in storage. Using a secure unit will protect it from inclement weather and ensure it’s ready to go when the temperatures climb again. Before doing this, preparing your vessel will prevent any damage during the downtime. To help you safeguard the vehicle, here are a few ways to winterize your boat.

Preparing Your Boat for Storage

1. Clean It

Make sure your boat is spotless before you put it in storage. This will ensure no unpleasant smells develop. Use water and soap to wipe all exterior surfaces and take out the trash from the interior. After your boat dries, apply wax over the paint and polish it evenly. Wax will help prevent rust and protect the paint job.

2. Prep the Engine

Completely drain the water from the engine and top off your fuel tank before putting it in storage. This prevents corrosion in the unit. Next, change the oil along with the oil filter. This also keeps the engine from corroding due to the acids within it. Additionally, spray fogging oil into the air intakes and use fuel stabilizer. This will keep the gas from going stale and damaging any components.

3. Perform a Final Check & Cover

Before moving your boat into the facility, make sure to do a final check. You may not see your boat for a while, so if you need repairs, get them now. Fixing issues will prevent them from worsening over time, which will save you money. After your inspection, place a cover over your boat to guard against dust and the elements. 

When looking for the perfect storage facility for your boat, turn to S&K Self Storage. Serving Central Lake County, Pablo, Ronan, and Polson, MT, they offer 160 units and 24/7 keypad access. Their storage center is gated and secure, ensuring your belongings are safe. Whether you need to store your vehicle or business documents, they’ll have an option for you. Visit their website to learn more about their options or call (406) 883-4317 to discuss your needs with a friendly team member.