First boat.... probably a dumb question

[Mikecaldo]

Hello all:
This is probably a dumb question that I am sure has been covered ad nauseam elsewhere, but I kind of just want some reassurance from anyone that has more knowledge than me. I appreciate any input, and if I'm doing something stupid go right ahead and tell me!

I have a 2001 Larson 210 with a 5.0 volvo penta GL (carbureted), Winter is around the corner in Nebraska, and I want to be sure I'm approaching it prepared. I winterized the boat on my own. Ran it up to temp on the hose, drained it, and then ran about 10 gallons of RV/Marine antifreeze through it. Drained it again and made sure that there was indeed antifreeze coming out of both sides of the block and both manifolds (i found 4 plugs total, 2 in the block and one in each manifold). Also disconnected and drained all the hoses connected to the water pump and fogged the carb. Is that adequate? It will live outside for the winter and don't want to crack anything.

Speaking of living outside, my plan was to dry it out real good and have it shrink wrapped. Anything else I should do to it?

Am I missing anything? Properly prepared I'd assume the boat will be fine outside for the winter -- I see them in storage lots all the time. It's not brand new, but I'd hate to do anything that will damage the engine.

Thanks in advance. I appreciate any guidance

Mike

 

[Alumarine]

Your draining procedure looks good.
Did you change the gear lube in the lower end?
When you say you "fogged the carb" did you run the engine while spraying fogging fluid in the carb?
It's not a big deal if you don't fog the motor but there's no point in spaying fogging fluid in the carb if the motors not running.

 

[Mikecaldo]

I fogged the carb while I was running the anitfreeze through. little shots for about 30 seconds and then a steady stream until it stalled. Then I drained the antifreeze and changed the gear oil and engine oil.

As far as storing outside. If its wrapped and winterized as I've described am I on the right track? anything else I should consider?

THanks again,
Mike

 

[roscoe]

Plug out, bow up, and I put some sta-bil in the gas tank.

 

[cptbill]

Don't forget any fresh water systems

 

[mr 88]

If shrinked wrap make sure it has clam shell vents .Moisture can build up when temps change. Not a bad idea to remove batteries and put them on a low amp charge in garage or basement, off the floor . You can leave in boat if you have electric going to it , not my first choice ,and charge that way. . Have seen storage places go up in flames because some one left battery in and somehow that ignited the fumes that may have built up in bilge.

 

[QBhoy]

Oh. It’s a touchy subject as always this time of year. I assume by the mention of “running 10 gallons” through it you mean you did it by ingesting from some sort of rig that takes the mix in by means of the water pump ? Be warned...always a hit or a miss doing this. Many before and after you will be caught out this way. Did you drain it after that again or leave it in ?
the general feeling is to either drain and leave it or drain and fill to the brim manually through the hoses at the t stat. I’m of the latter thinking just to stop cold corrosion

 

[cptbill]

 

[RGrew176]

The only dumb question is the one you don't ask. For my peace of mind I let the pro's winterize the engines in my boat. If they screw up they fix or replace the engines. Sounds like you have it covered. Good luck.

 

[RGrew176]

For me winter is the time to save up $$ for the next season. Kinda gives winter a purpose.

 

[legalfee]

LOL. My boat stays in the water year round. The only thing that keeps me off the lake is draw down. And it has to be pretty low then.

 

[tacx]

If you have power steering cooling hoses I think you need to drain that also.

 

[Old Ironmaker]

I would love to winterize my boat someday by towing it to Florida. You are doing it right. No need for 10 gallons of plumbers anti freeze though, that's a lot of anti freeze and $$$$.

I have learned how to winterize my outboards here in Canada but if I had an I/O I would leave it to the experts like RGrew176 does. I don't know what they charge down there but I know it would have been worth it for a few guys I know that were trying to save a few hundred bucks and cracked the block and heads on theirs. BIG $$$$$$$$!!!!.

 

[RE2Master]

Yeah on a comical note for here in Florida, winterizing involves wearing a parka when you take it out or maybe a light jacket.

 

[mr 88]

Yeah on a comical note for here in Florida, winterizing involves wearing a parka when you take it out or maybe a light jacket.

Is this when a hurricane is making landfall ? I sure have seen a lot of boats destroyed in the aftermath, I would rather winterize than deal with that.