Do I need to worry about short term low temps - out of town - help

[Robertpel9]

After the hydrolocked engine situation a week ago I have become a hypochondriac in relation to my boat.

I am out of town for a few days for work and have no way to get to my boat to pull the drain plugs. It is sitting in my wetslip in 65 degree water but here in NC on lake norman it is going to be between 30-34 for the next three nights at its coldest and then into the 50's and 60's during the day

Am I OK, in reading archived threads i see that next year i need to get a bilge heater to be safe and i am pulling it this sunday as it has a date to be winterized on Monday (A week from today) after which i will be storing it for the winter

It would seem that things would stay above freezing in the engine compartment because it is sitting in the much warmer water and it will be well above freezing 20 hours out of a 24 hour day as we go thru this cold spell. Is that wishful thinking or do i have a problem on my hands???

 

[Don S]

Re: Do I need to worry about short term low temps - out of town - help

Since it's still in the water and doesn't get below 30. you shouldn't have a problem. This is assuming my crystal ball is still working, and it has been broken a lot lately.

 

[Robertpel9]

Re: Do I need to worry about short term low temps - out of town - help

Is the lake water temp going to be my savior or is it just not cold enough yet?

 

[chiefalen]

Re: Do I need to worry about short term low temps - out of town - help

Your gonna be fine.

But next time anytime after sept when you leave ya baby pull the plugs.

Takes 15 minutes tops.

You leave it in the water thru the whole winter?

 

[180shabah]

Re: Do I need to worry about short term low temps - out of town - help

The water is your savior, it should keep the engine compartment above freezing for the few hours that the air temp will dip that low.

Like the chief stated above - in the future, if you have doubts, drain it.