Winterization?

[persuader72715]

Since this is my first boat, I really don't know whats involved in winterizing my boat? Whta would be the first steps? Mercruiser I/O V6 190hp alpha one drive? She will be stored outside under two covers, side of my house.

[persuader72715]

Since this is my first boat, I really don't know whats involved in winterizing my boat? Whta would be the first steps? Mercruiser I/O V6 190hp alpha one drive? She will be stored outside under two covers, side of my house.

[JW]

I'd recommend you have a local dealer you trust winterize an I/O for you. Improper winterization can cost you big dollars if your area freezes hard during the winter. I've done my own I/O winterization, and while fairly easy, it's a long process and up here in Michigan there's no room for error. A good mechanic can do the job right, will warranty the work, and you'll have no hassels in the spring.

[vinny p.]

I agree with JW. But, if you really want to do this yourself, let me know.

[happy]

winterization is not all that hard.. albiet its been a long time since i've been in ohio.. but heres how we did it then...
remove all the stuff out of the boat, clean and dry the inside completely.

engine wise..

1. change oil/ gear lube.. you don't want the acids chewing away at your engine and drive. look for abnormal signs while doing this.. ie water in the drive oil... or water in the engine oil..

2. in a safe manner... as to not harm the environment.. mix up some enviro safe antifreeze to the specs on the bottle.. run the engine on this mixture until your sure the thermostat has opened and the antifreeze mixture has filled the block and manifolds

3. once step two is done.. fog the engine.. the easiest way is to buy the can from a merc dealer.. just spray it down the flame arrestor untill the engine shuts down..

4. disconnect both pos and neg battery cables

5. spray the engine and other electrical components with corrosion x or corrosion guard... not wd 40.. it evaporates too quick..

6. if you can leave a light bulb running in there to help with the humidity.. i would.. .. i hope i helped some.. and if i missed/made a mistake.. lemme know.. its been 15 years since i've had to do this..

[happy]

i knew i'd screw up.. its humid in texas... not up north in the winter..

[persuader72715]

well I don't know if you consider Arkansas Up North? Damn, Texans everybodies up north J/K, hanks for the help

[happy]

sorry, we boat all year down here.. the coldest we see is 26 degrees.. and thats only for a few hours.. i used to live in ohio.. thats where i learned boating, winterization.. yada..