should I winterize

[Surge]

I live in Southern California. It is never cold enough for it to snow or freeze water. As a matter of fact we can still go boating in the winter. Since I plan on still using the boat should I still be worried about winterizing it or is it ok. The worst here is a frosted windshield any advice would be recommended.

 

[Scaaty]

Re: should I winterize

Nah........

 

[iwombat]

Re: should I winterize

Don't think of it so much as winterizing, as storage prep. You'd do the same thing if you planned on storing it in a heated storage unit for a prolonged period of time.

If you're planning on using it over the winter you don't really need to worry about it.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: should I winterize

store with the motor in the down postion,, just in case of a freeze, this allows any water in the engine and lower unit to drain. it's also time to change the lower unit lube, to make sure there is no water in the lower unit.

 

[BoatBuoy]

Re: should I winterize

Check the trailer bearings for water intrusion.

The last time you run the engine, kill it with the choke(or maybe the primer) rather than just turning the ignition switch off. That will put a slightly richer fuel charge in the engine, which means more oil.

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: should I winterize

Sounds like there is no reason to winterize but I would recommend starting the boat and letting it run at least once every two weeks.

 

[Solittle]

Re: should I winterize

We live in Florida so don't have to sweat the cold but there are times when we don't use the boat for a long time. Like crazy charlie points out it is a good idea to run the engines once in a while. That prevents the fuel in the carbs from gumming up and keeps all the internals well lubed. Also it is a good practice to put a trickle charger on the batteries as well. I put a charge on mine monthly - give or take.

 

[Surge]

Re: should I winterize

Ok thanks guys that was very helpful. I'll follow Your advice. thanks a lot.