25. STORAGE AND WINTERIZATION
53
THIS SECTION PROVIDES BASIC
RECOMMENDATIONS ON STORAGE AND
WINTERIZATION AND SHOULD NOT BE
CONSIDERED A COMPLETE OR EXACT LIST.
CONSULT YOUR LOCAL DEALER FOR SPECIFIC
STORAGE AND WINTERIZATION INSTRUCTIONS.
BALLAST TANK SHOULD BE EMPTY TO
PREVENT FREEZING OR RUPTURING.
STORAGE METHODS
Winter storage is recommended to be done in one of
the following three ways:
1. Cradle blocking
2. Chained stands on level ground
3. Water with a bubbler system to prevent icing
(damage to your boat, including engine
misalignment caused by twisting, is not covered
by the warranty)
SAILS
Sails should be properly folded and stowed in a dry,
well-ventilated place. Many sailboat owners send their
sails back to the sail manufacturer at the end of each
season. The sail maker will check the stitching and
sailcloth for wear and store the sails until the start of
the next season.
ELECTRICAL
Remove battery from boat (refer to manufacturer’s
manual) and charge. It is a good idea to also remove
the electronics (radio, radar, etc) and store in a safe
place.
CUSHIONS
Cushions should be removed and stored at home if
possible. If not, prop them vertically to promote air
flow around each cushion. Dry clean only!
HATCHES
Tenting the deck during storage will help prevent ice
from forming and damaging hatches and deck fittings.
The installation of a passive vent will help with
ventilation while the boat is in storage.
WATER SYSTEM
Open a faucet and allow the pump to empty the tank.
Then add approximately two gallons (7.6L) of non-
toxic antifreeze solution to the tank and repeat the
pumping out procedure.
A second method is to disconnect the hoses at the
pump, allowing them to drain. Find the lowest point in
the system and disconnect the fitting. Open all faucets
to allow the lines to drain. If possible, use a short hose
on the faucet to blow through the lines to clear all
water. A diluted solution with baking soda will help
freshen the system.
TOILET AND HOLDING TANK
Drain and flush toilet. Using non-toxic antifreeze,
pump through toilet and into holding tank.
OUTBOARD ENGINE
Store your engine in a safe place. Refer to
manufacturer’s manual for specific storing and
maintenance.
DEPARTURE FROM THE BOAT
Invest the time necessary to compile and complete a
storage checklist. Addressing overlooked items
generally becomes impractical or impossible once
later remembered. Primary on this list are items
relating to the safety and security of the unattended
craft: turning off fuel valves, properly setting electrical
switches, pumping out bilges and leaving the switch
on automatic (or arranging for periodic pumping). It is
recommended that the power be turned off when
leaving the boat. Other departure checklist items
should include securing ports, windows, hatches and
doors.
ROUTINE MAINTENANCE
Routine maintenance checklists should include items
based on boat use (usually in terms of engine hours)
and on calendar dates (weekly, monthly or seasonal
checks).
Boat use items typically include oil level checks/
changes and oil and fuel filter changes.
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