If you live in Wisconsin, you know how cold the winters can get. In fact, the temperatures can get downright frigid. That’s why it’s so important to winterize your boats in Oshkosh the right way. Here are some ways to make sure your Wisconsin boat is ready for the cold months.
Outboard Engines
When getting your outboard engine ready for winter, flush it with fresh water. Once all the water has drained from the outboard engine, wash it with soap and water and then rinse it. Disconnect it from the fuel hose and allow the engine to run until it shuts off. Also, use fogging oil inside the cylinders of the outboard engine to make sure the walls and pistons are properly lubricated. Be sure to lubricate the outside of the engine as well or simply give it a good wax job.
Stern Drives
Before the winter months hit, you should inspect the stern drive on your boat. If you notice any barnacles or plant life along the lower area of the unit, clean it off. You should also look for any excessive moisture in the oil. If you do notice some moisture, it could be a sign that you have a leaky seal. Try to repair the problem before you store your boat away from the winter so you don’t forget about it when the summertime arrives. You should also drain the gear case and check your owner’s manual for any other procedures to winterize this part of your boat.
Fuel Tanks
Your first instinct might be to empty the fuel tanks before putting your boat away for the winter. But you should actually fill the fuel tanks of your boats in Oshkosh before the winter. This helps prevent condensation during the cold months. In addition, add fuel stabilizer. This is also an ideal time to change the water separators and the fuel filters in the tanks.
Interior of the Boat
After cleaning the mechanics and preparing them for winter, don’t forget about the interior of the boat. Be sure to remove any electronics or valuables before storing it away. You should also remove any fire extinguishers, flares and other items. Don’t forget to clean out the freezer and refrigerator so you don’t have any surprises when you come back to the boat when summer arrives. You can also run a dehumidifier to help cut down on the mildew and odor throughout the winter.
If you need help winterizing your boat or if you need accessories to help with the process, come to American Marine & Motorsports. We have a full line of accessories and our experts can help answer your questions about the process.
