Winterizing your boat is the best way to protect your engine, fuel system, and interior from damage during cold months. Whether you’re storing your boat in the water, on a lift, or on a trailer, here’s a simple guide to make sure everything stays in top shape until spring.
1. Clean the Boat Thoroughly
Before storing:
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- Wash the hull
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- Scrub the deck
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- Clean the bilge
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- Remove any food or trash
A clean boat won’t attract mold, mildew, or unwanted critters.
2. Change the Engine Oil
Old oil contains contaminants that can corrode your engine while sitting.
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- Warm the engine
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- Drain the oil
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- Replace with fresh oil + new filter
This helps protect internal engine parts through the winter.
3. Stabilize the Fuel
Fuel breaks down in cold weather and can cause engine problems later.
Do this:
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- Fill the fuel tank
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- Add marine fuel stabilizer
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- Run the engine for several minutes
This ensures the treated fuel circulates through the system.
4. Flush and Protect the Cooling System
Depending on your engine:
For inboards/outboards:
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- Flush with fresh water
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- Run non-toxic marine antifreeze
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- Make sure antifreeze reaches the block and manifolds
This prevents freezing and cracking.
5. Fog the Engine (If Required)
Fogging oil coats the inside of your engine with protective lubrication.
This helps prevent rust while the boat sits unused.
6. Drain All Water Lines
Don’t let freezing water damage your boat.
Drain:
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- Livewells
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- Washdown systems
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- Freshwater tanks
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- Shower lines
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- AC/raw water systems
Then add antifreeze where needed.
7. Protect the Battery
Cold kills batteries fast.
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- Remove or disconnect the battery
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- Charge it fully
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- Store it indoors
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- Charge it monthly
8. Grease & Lubricate Moving Parts
Spray or grease:
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- Steering components
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- Control cables
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- Hinges
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- Latches
This prevents corrosion and stiffness once spring returns.
9. Cover the Boat Properly
A good cover keeps out:
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- Snow
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- Rain
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- Moisture
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- UV damage
Best options:
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- Shrink wrap
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- Heavy-duty marine cover
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- Full canopy on a lift
Make sure air can circulate to avoid mold.
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FINAL CHECKLIST
✔ Engine winterized
✔ Antifreeze added
✔ Fuel stabilized
✔ Battery removed
✔ Interior cleaned
✔ Cover secured
Winterizing saves you hundreds of dollars in repairs and keeps your boat ready for a perfect spring launch.
