Checklist for Winter Boat Storage

The following are general guidelines. Check your owner’s manual for manufacturer’s recommendations/procedures particular to your boat.

INBOARD ENGINES

• Change oil & oil filter
• Flush engine with fresh water
• Circulate antifreeze through the manifold
• Change transmission fluid
• Remove spark plugs/spray “fogging oil” into each cylinder (Gas engines ONLY)
• Wipe down the engine

STERN DRIVE

• Inspect stern drive/remove any plant life or barnacles
• Drain gear case and check for excessive moisture in the oil
• Clean lower unit with soap & water
• For units with rubber boot: Check rubber boot for cracks or pinholes
• Grease all fittings
• Check fluid levels in hydraulic steering or lift pumps

OUTBOARD ENGINES

• Flush engine with water; drain completely
• Wash engine with soap & water
• Disconnect fuel hoses; run engine until it stops
• Ensure all fuel is drained from carburetor
• Lubricate cylinder walls & pistons with fogging oil
• Apply water-resistant grease to propeller shaft & threads
• Change gear oil in lower unit
• Lubricate engine exterior or polish with a good wax

BILGES

• Clean & dry
• Clean any oil spills with soap & hot water
• Once dry, spray with moisture-displacing lubricant
• Add a little antifreeze to prevent any water from freezing

FUEL

• Fill fuel tank
• Add fuel stabilizer
• Change fuel filter(s) & water separator(s)

FRESH WATER SYSTEM

• Drain fresh water tank & hot water heater
• Isolate hot water heater by connecting the in & out lines together
• Pump non-toxic antifreeze into the system & turn on all faucets/shower/wash down areas until antifreeze starts running out
• Put non-toxic antifreeze in the water heater

HEAD

• Pump out holding tank; while pumping add fresh water to the bowl & flush several times
• Add manufacturer-recommended marine cleaner/deodorizer; let sit a few minutes, then add water and pump out again
• Add antifreeze & pump through hoses, holding tank, y-valve, macerator & discharge hose

INTERIOR

• Remove valuables, electronics, lines, PFDs, fire extinguishers, flares, fenders, etc.; clean, check and replace as necessary
• Open all drawers/ lockers & clean
• Turn cushions on edge so air can circulate around them or store in a climate controlled area
• Install a dehumidifier or use an odor & moisture absorber to keep your boat dry & mildew free

OUT-OF-WATER STORAGE

• Pressure wash hull, clean barnacles off props & shafts, rudders, struts & trim tabs
• Clean all through-hulls & strainers
• Open seacocks to drain water
• Check hull for blisters; attend to any you find
• Wax hull
• Take batteries out of boat; put on trickle charger or charge them every 30–60 days

Courtesy of Discover Boating. Download PDF here.