The End of Boating Season Just Means the Next One is Coming
Summer fun fades fast; prep for winter with expert boat winterization at Reeder-Trausch Marine. Trusted service to protect your boat all season long.
For boaters in colder climates, winterizing is a must. Even if you're still enjoying the water, it's smart to plan ahead. Proper winterization protects your boat and makes spring launch quick and hassle-free.
Drain ALL the Water
We all know that water freezes when the temperatures drop, and ice is not good for boats. It expands, which can cause damage. Freeze damage often isn’t covered by boat insurance, so it’s crucial to remove all water properly.
If you’re not sure how to drain the water, you can contact us at Reeder-Trausch Marine, and we’d be happy to help.
It’s All About the Engine
Winterizing your engine will depend on what kind of engine you have. It’s a safe bet that you’ll want to drain all the fluid from the system and replace it before you store the boat for the winter. Changing the fluids and filters helps ensure the engine stays clean and dry throughout the winter.
Inspect other key components as well. Check engine oil, and if applicable, coolant (for closed cooling systems) and hydraulic steering fluid. Not all boats have these systems, so check what's relevant to yours. Before reinstalling the engine cover, grease any accessible fittings or moving parts, like those on the steering system or drive coupler, to protect them during storage.
Fill Up That Tank
Since winter can be just as damp as summer, you want to make sure the fuel tank is full. This prevents condensation from accumulating in the tank. Once it’s full, add a fuel stabilizer or preservative to keep the gas from vaporizing. This will also help prevent buildup in the fuel lines and carburetor.
Give it a Good Cleaning
Before covering your boat, if you’re storing it at home, give it a good cleaning. If you have a pressure washer, use it to get any buildup off the boat. Use a hull or bottom cleaner to remove any debris. After it’s clean, apply a coat of wax.
Hop in the boat and give the inside a good cleaning, too. Take out all the gear you put in there for the summer.
Reeder-Trausch Marine – Your Go-To Resource for All Things Boating
Winterizing your boat might feel like a big task, but you’ll be glad you did it when spring comes around. At Reeder-Trausch Marine, we’re here to make the process easier, whether you just have a few questions or want us to handle everything for you.
Our mission is to make boat ownership as stress-free as possible, so you can focus on enjoying the water. From fogging the engine to prevent internal rust, to caring for your batteries, inspecting your prop and drive, and making sure your boat is properly covered and ventilated, we’ve got you covered. Stop by or give us a call today; we’re ready to help you get started.
