Storage - Long Term

[sixgun95]

I will be putting my boat, 07 Chaparral 214 Sunesta,5.0L Merc, in storage - long term. 3-5 years or so. Boat is currently winterized. What do recommend I do? I plan on removing the battery and getting as much fuel out of the tank as possible & spraying WD-40 or Fogging Oil into each cylinder. What else do I need to do?

 

[superpop]

Re: Storage - Long Term

I think I would shrink wrap it and store it indoors if possible. Unless you have free storage somewhere and you are emotionally attached to the boat, why don't you just sell it. 3-5 Years is a long time to just have it sitting idle. Lots of depreciation with no use. Couple the storage costs with the depreciation and you will be far ahead financially if you just sell it now and stick the money in the bank, in 3-5 years go buy a new one. You will also more than likely have lots of little leaks as most of the gaskets and seals will dry up and leak, all rubber will also most likely need to be replaced as well, bellows ect. May not be as bad though if it is in a thermostatically controlled storage area with the drive down.

 

[rrhodes]

Re: Storage - Long Term

Agreed,... The worst thing you can do to a boat is not use it. If you are attached make sure to drain all the fuel, Change all fluids and Shrink Wrap it once you are sure it is completely dry.

Climate controlled Storage would be preferred if feasible.

 

[5150abf]

Re: Storage - Long Term

If you are going that long without it I would think about selling it, it will be worth alot less in 5-6 years than what you could get for it now, put the money in a 60 month T bill, cash it out in 6 years and get a new boat.

 

[Jeep Man]

Re: Storage - Long Term

If it's EFI do not drain the fuel from the motor. It needs it to prevent components from drying out. Run a mixture of gas, 2 stroke oil and fuel stabilizer thru the fuel system