Things to Do Before Storing Your Boat for Winter
After enjoying a fun summer of outings on the lake with your boat, the last thing you want is for damage to occur during the winter because of improper winterizing or storage. That’s why it’s important to know how to prepare your boat for storage during the winter. Minor problems can quickly become serious over an extended period of activity, so before you move your boat to the best boat storage in Metairie, make sure your boat is ready for storage. Here’s how you can do this.
Thorough Cleaning and Inspection
Before you place your boat in storage, make sure to thoroughly clean and inspect every surface of the boat. This will not only identify problems that need to be addressed before storing, but it will reduce how much work you have to do when it’s boating season again. Wash the topsides, bottom, and deck, and use a coat of wax on the topsides. Look for any blistering, cracks, or tears in canvas or screens. Check for any signs of corrosion and problems with belts, wiring connections, or leakage around seals.
Prepare the Fuel
The fuel system needs to be prepared for storage as well. Top off the tank and change the fuel filter. It’s also important to add a marine fuel stabilizer. This will reduce gum and varnish buildup and keep the whole system clean during storage. Be sure to read your boat’s manufacturer’s instructions to find the right stabilizer.
Flush Cooling System
The cooling system should also be flushed in preparation for winter boat storage. Inboard and sterndrive boats that use raw water-cooling systems should be flushed with fresh water to remove any corrosion, dirt, or salt. Outboard motors need to be flushed with freshwater, and the water should be drained out.
Fog the Engine
The engine should also be fogged in order to lubricate the pistons and cylinders so that the engine is properly lubricated during inactivity. There are lubricant sprays specifically made for this purpose to clean the components of the engine and lubricate everything. This is typically done by spraying the fogging oil through the air intakes while the engine runs.
Lubricate
In addition to lubricating the engine, make sure all the little parts are lubricated as well. This includes fittings, bearing, and couplers. Hinges, latches, switches, and mounts should have a moisture-displacing lubricant applied so that these moving parts will still work well once the storage period is over.
Change Engine Oil
Leaving dirty oil in the engine can potentially cause corrosion, so the oil should be changed after you fog the engine. Look for a milky or discolored appearance when changing the oil because this can indicate moisture from leaking seals. If you suspect the seals are leaking, be sure to have them repaired before storing the boat.
Remove Moisture
Moisture can wreak havoc on your boat over a period of inactivity, so make sure you check for any standing water in all areas of the boat. This includes the bilges, drawers, fish holds, lockers, and other storage areas. You can use moisture absorbers to make sure mold and mildew aren’t a problem.
Store and Check
When you’re considering self-storage solutions in Metairie, LA, make sure you find a secure facility that makes it easy for you to check on your boat. Cover your boat and check on it periodically to make sure the boat is protected from moisture, debris, and pests. To learn more, contact Affordable Self Storage today.
Our 5 Convenient Area Locations
Affordable Self Storage
(504) 833-1717 | Fax: (504) 831-4840