boat storage

hotmerc

Seaman
Joined
Aug 13, 2003
Messages
71
does anyone know of any web sites that gives instructions on how to block a boat for winter storage. i've got such a big driveway i figure i'll save some money rather than keep it in a marina. i know i need cement blocks and blocks of wood and a couple of floor jacks. i'll be blocking it off a friends trailer.<br /><br />thanks
 

Seaboo2

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Jan 25, 2003
Messages
158
Re: boat storage

Are you talking about blocking up the (whole) trailer or the boat off the trailer? Either one is not that hard. The whole trailer you simply jack it up and place blocks around enough to suport it and keep the tires off the ground.<br /><br /> The boat is a little more complicated (first I have to ask why bother???? I'd just leave it on the trailer myself and cover and winterize it).<br /><br /> If you do a search on this site it has been explained (in god detail) a couple times before (I'm sorry I didn't keep the link).
 

zzzzz

Lieutenant Junior Grade
Joined
Jan 13, 2003
Messages
1,094
Re: boat storage

hmerc-rather than concrete blocks,you may be able to get the closed cell foam blocks-the kind they use on concrete homes for non-load bearing arches etc that then get stucco coated...you can sculpt them to hull shape and no danger of damaging hull :cool:
 

nomad317

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Mar 5, 2003
Messages
48
Re: boat storage

I was going to post basically the same question. I have a heated garage but the trailer is too long. I searched the topics but I can't find any specific info. I (guess I) need to "block" the boat off of the trailer. Figured I'd just reply here as opposed to starting a new topic...<br /><br />Thanks<br />-nomad-
 

zzzzz

Lieutenant Junior Grade
Joined
Jan 13, 2003
Messages
1,094
Re: boat storage

nomad-if you only lack a couple feet you may be able to convert trailer to have a removable neck with sleeve and bolts..this has worked for our customers numerous times :cool:
 

nomad317

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Mar 5, 2003
Messages
48
Re: boat storage

Thanks ZZZZZ,<br /> I'd have to measure it again but I'm guessing it's at least 3 feet (maybe 4). It's an unusually long trailer for a 17'8" boat. It's suppose to hit freezing tonight and of course I was not ready for that. First winter owning a boat (can you tell) :D <br /><br />-nomad-
 

zzzzz

Lieutenant Junior Grade
Joined
Jan 13, 2003
Messages
1,094
Re: boat storage

everybody has to have a first boat/first winter thing-mine was a 30 footer at Lake Erie..."whadda ya mean $1200 winter storage bill??" :eek: :eek: :eek:
 

hammlfam

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Jul 20, 2003
Messages
45
Re: boat storage

Nomad, I'm from Indy area as well(noblesville). What are going to do about the freeze thing this week? I'm putting mine in storage at the marina and getting it winterized, but not for another 2 weeks and I can't get it into the garage. I'm going to wrap the motor with a comforter. ANother poster suggested putting in 100watt light bulbs with the engine.
 

nomad317

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Mar 5, 2003
Messages
48
Re: boat storage

hammlfam,<br /> I wouldn't worry too much. It's a prolonged freeze (deep) that will kill ya. You should be fine for 2 weeks. The weather report just reminded me that I have a boat sitting in my driveway and I need to start planning. Light bulbs would probably work pretty good if you're worried. <br /><br />I don't even want to know the cost of winterizing and storage in a marina.<br /><br />I'm way too cheap for that stuff. :D <br /><br />-nomad-<br />"man overboard"
 

Seaboo2

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Jan 25, 2003
Messages
158
Re: boat storage

Just a quick rundown (from the what worked for me files). The easiest way I've found to do it is to lower the tounge jack as low as you can. Block up the stern of the boat. Raise the jack to it's highest posision and block the front(you can also place them around the hull as needed at this point). I've also heard of people using tires (they kinda form to the hull). Yiu have to use some careful thinking, cussing, friends, and watching pulling out the trailer. I just think that using a jack on a boat it is too easy to punch a hole in the hull for my taste.
 
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