LARSON Bass - Winterization and Storage; Winterization and Storage Preparation

© 2003-2018 Ken Cook Co. Bass l 11 - 1
Section 11
WINTERIZATION AND STORAGE
The boat may be equipped with a variety of specialized systems and components.
The following basic and typical information may not apply to your specific
application. This section may not cover all systems or components on the boat.
Consult the boat dealer for assistance.
Winterizing or storing the boat for extended periods of non-use requires special
preparation to prevent boat and system damage. Without proper preparation, if the
boat is not used or is stored for extended periods of time, internal parts of the
engine may become corroded from lack of lubrication. If the boat is stored in
freezing temperatures, water inside the bilge, engine cooling system or boat water
systems may freeze and cause damage. Be sure to keep up with all annual
maintenance during winterization.
Before performing any winterization and storage procedures within this section,
review Safety in Section 2.
WINTERIZATION AND STORAGE PREPARATION
The following procedures will help prevent damage to the boat:
• While the boat is still in the water, fill fuel tank(s) with fresh fuel and add the
proper amount of fuel stabilizer/conditioner according to the engine
manufacturer’s recommendations. Operate the boat for at least 15
minutes to be sure that the treated fuel has reached the engine.
If you plan to store the boat for more than three months in
either a humid environment, extreme temperatures or outdoors, “fog” the engine
with a corrosion-preventing fogging oil according to the propulsion system
manufacturer’s recommendations. See the Engine Operator’s Manual for more
information.
• Once the boat is removed from the water, remove the bilge drain plug
immediately. Store the drain plug in a plastic bag and tape it to the throttle
control lever for easy accessibility the next time you use the boat.
• Inspect all sacrificial corrosion protection anodes for excessive wear and
replace as necessary.
• Check all thru-hull fittings and other fasteners for tightness and leakage.
• Thoroughly clean the hull, deck and interior of the boat as soon as you
remove it from the water; marine growth is easier to remove when it is wet.
• Always allow all boat compartments to air dry for a couple of days to
prevent mildew from trapped moisture. If you use shrink wrap, always
allow for ventilation to prevent mildew from trapped moisture.