De-Winterize Your Boat
Spring Boat Prep to Get Your Boat Ready for Spring Commissioning
1. Have Your Manufacturer's Manual Handy
If you have a copy, great. If you don't, it would be a good idea to get one. You'll need it to replace fluids and parts properly. Never take apart anything without consulting the manual first.2. De-winterizing Your Engine
The engine is the heart of the boat, and since it will most like take the greatest amount of time and be the messiest, start here. If you didn't change the oil at the end of last season, do so now. After running your boat all summer, it's likely that water, acids and other byproducts have built up. It's important to change the oil to prevent corrosion and excessive wear which can lead to loss of power, poor fuel economy or engine failure. At the same time you change the oil, be sure to change the oil filter. Change the oil in transmission or the outboard's lower unit as well.
Next, flush the cooling system and replace the antifreeze with a 50/50 ratio of water to coolant.
Finally, replace the batteries and perform a thorough engine test.
3. Inspect the Canvas & Vinyl
Check your bimini top, seats, covers, and other vinyl and canvas items for tears, mildew and dirt. Repairs tears and holes, and then clean with the proper cleaner for canvas and vinyl.
4. Inspect the Hull
Carefully inspect the hull for blisters or other chips and cracks as well as for chalky residue. If you find blisters, repair them. If the boat's hull is chalky, it could indicate oxidation. Determine the level of oxidation, and then restore the boat's gelcoat to its original luster. Then, throughout the summer, follow the gelcoat maintenance plan to keep oxidation at bay.
5. Clean and Wax the Hull
First clean your boat's exterior using a marine safe cleaner from a marine supply store. Then, apply a fresh coat of wax according to the instructions in the gelcoat maintenance plan.
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