Tips For Storing Your Boat This Winter

As we enter October and start pulling our boats in preparation for the ski season, my final article for this boating season will deal with some things to consider doing as we put our boats on the hard.

If you are supporting your boat with jack stands make sure you do the following:

• Have a solid piece of plywood under each leg of the stand

• Have stands every seven (7) or eight (8) feet along the sides of the boat.

• Have the stands brace the boat from falling over use blocking under the keel to support the weight.

• If the boat is bow or stern heavy, place a stand directly under the centerline. If a sail boat use a V top for the stand not a flat plate.

• Chain opposite side stands together and make sure the chain is tight. If the chain can touch the hull use chaffing gear to stop the chain from chewing the hull.

These are some of the major causes of boats toppling over. Winterize your engine and all power systems as soon as possible after hauling for the winter. Don't forget your fresh water systems. Drain the systems by opening all taps and disconnecting the lines at the lowest points in the systems. Try using a wet/dry vacuum on the water lines to remove any water in blind pockets which might freeze over the winter.

Also check your fuel line water separators as they may have water as well. Don't forget to use fuel stabilizers and fill tank to 90 to 95 % capacity. Not filling to capacity allows for expansion in hot weather. Remove and store in a warm dry place all equipment that would be adversely affected by freezing or damp winter conditions. Clean everything so that in the spring the boat does not need a professional cleaning service.

Leave all lockers, cabinets and the frig/ice box open. Consider putting packets of material that absorber dampness in various compartments. This coming spring as the snow melts and our thoughts turn to boating, I will put together a list of environmentally friendly products which are not only inexpensive, but very effective in cleaning and protecting your boat and its equipment.

Finally, now is the time to consider taking one of many different boating courses offered during the off season. Check the list online with either the US Coast Guard Auxiliary or the US Power Squadron. They courses are listed on the web sites.

Have a great winter and let me know topics you would like discussed next year. Bob Cusack U. S. Coast Guard Auxiliary