With winter arriving, it’s time to get your boat ready for storage. Regular boat service and maintenance will keep your vessel in excellent shape and extend its lifetime for your enjoyment. Here are a few steps you can take to winterize your boat before the temperatures drop.

The Winter Boat Service & Maintenance Guide

1. Take Care of Your Engine

Begin boat service and maintenance by prepping your engine. Sitting water can cause corrosion over the course of the winter, so be sure to completely drain the engine. Following your owner’s manual, use a fogging oil spray for protection against rusting. Seal exhaust ports to prevent pests from entering your engine.

2. Flush & Add Fluids

To keep the components of your vessel running smoothly, flush, replace, or add any necessary fluids. Empty and flush your cooling system to remove sediments, then fill it with antifreeze. Top off your fuel tank and add a fuel stabilizer to keep your system clean and condensation-free throughout storage. Flush out the oil filter to get rid of corrosive materials in the engine, change the filter, and refill it with fresh oil.

3. Clean & Wax

Before putting your vessel away, you’ll need to clean off the dirt, grime, and minerals that build up over the course of the boating season. Scrub your boat from the inside out with a pressure washer and the appropriate boat cleaners. Apply a wax to the surface to protect it against debris and give it a new-boat shine.

4. Remove Valuables

Valuable items, particularly electronics, can be damaged by severe weather while your boat is stowed away during the winter. Remove belongings such as radios, fire extinguishers, flares, organic materials, and boat fenders from the interior before storage.

5. Cover & Store It

Get a durable cover to protect your vessel from moisture, dust, dirt, pests, and the elements. A dry, climate-controlled location is ideal, but dry stack storage and yard storage are also viable for those looking for more affordable options. Proper seasonal care and storage will ensure your boat is ready for the water once warmer weather arrives.

If you need professional boat service and maintenance before the temperatures fall, come to Pickensville Marine & Sports Shop. Serving Pickens County, AL, this boat dealer carries over 32 years of experience matching clients to the perfect new or used boat to suit their needs. If you’re looking for a safe location to stow your boat away for the winter, they offer enclosed storage units. To discuss your maintenance or storage needs, call (205) 373-6372. You can also learn more about their services online.