If you’re preparing to store your boat for the season, winterizing is crucial to maintain its optimal condition for your springtime adventures. Proper winter boat care helps prevent costly repairs and extends the life of your vessel. Follow these top winter boat care tips to ensure your boat is well-protected, even during periods of non-use.

Winter Boat Care Tips

1. Use Fuel Stabilizer If you’re storing your boat for an extended period, adding a fuel stabilizer is essential. This prevents the fuel from degrading, which can lead to engine issues. After adding the stabilizer, run the engine briefly to ensure the entire fuel system benefits. Remember, this can be done even if your boat is out of the water.

2. Make Necessary Oil and Filter Changes Winter is the perfect time to change your boat’s fuel filter, oil, and oil filter. Leaving dirty oil in the engine during storage can lead to corrosion and damage. While these tasks can be handled as a DIY project, our boat repair service department in Houston is here to assist you if you prefer professional help.

3. Perform an Antifreeze Flush & Cylinder Fogging To avoid potential damage from freezing temperatures, flush your motor with antifreeze. Even in Houston, where winter temperatures are mild, trapped water can freeze and cause internal damage. After the antifreeze treatment, apply fogging oil to the carburetors to protect the cylinders from rust. Perform this step while the motor is still running for best results.

4. Take Care of Your Propellers Properly winterizing your propellers is key to their longevity. Follow these steps:

• Remove the propellers.
• Drain the gear lube.
• If the gear lube appears lumpy or milky, it’s time to schedule a boat outdrive service with us. Otherwise, refill it after draining and dispose of the old gear lube properly. We can also handle this for you.
• Reattach the propellers if storing indoors. For outdoor storage, grease the prop shaft and cover it with plastic.

Need More Help?

These are just a few essential winter care tips for boats. If you have more questions or need assistance, we’re here to help. Contact our team at Palmer Power today to ensure your boat remains in top condition for years to come.