What should you do before storing your nautique boat for the winter?
As the temperature drops, boat owners prepare their nautique boats for winter storage. But this is not a process you want to rush - take your time and do it right.
Winterizing your boat will help protect it from harsh weather conditions and low temperatures, preventing damage to many parts of your boat. Buxton Marine is your local boat dealer in Lewisville and TX. Here is some vital information to properly store your boat for winter so you can protect your investment during the off-season.
How to Safely Store Your Boat
Figure out where to store your boat before winter sets in. You have a few options. The cheapest is keeping the boat outside under a cover after you winterize the engine, but the boat will be vulnerable to bad weather, thieves, and animals that might try to make her their home.
If you have enough space, store her in your garage or shed on the trailer.
If the winter is mild, you might rent a slip at a marina and keep her moored there all year. Alternatively, you may rent a storage facility for her to hold her securely.
The cost and level of security offered by these alternatives range widely, with outdoor options being less safe and indoor ones being more secure. Before making your decision, consider all your choices and your available money.
Clean Up the Boat First
It is ideal to consider when you want to prevent mold and mildew from growing while your boat is in storage:
· Clean it thoroughly in the next step.
· Remove any trash, food, or personal items from your boat.
· Remove fishing and watersport equipment from the boat and store it somewhere else.
· Sweep your deck, and clean all interior surfaces with a brush to remove any saltwater residue, algae, sand, or other particles that may have been collected there.
· Make sure your boat is completely dry before you store her away. You'll also want to see if any damage needs repairing.
Change the Oil
Draining your boat's old oil and replacing it with new oil is crucial to preventing corrosion, regardless of whether or not it's time for your regular change. Ensure you drain the oil and replace it with a clean batch to avoid any irreversible damage.
Invest in a Boat Cover
While a boat cover might not be necessary if you store your vessel indoors, it's still beneficial to have one to shield your boat from dust and other particles.
If you keep your boat outdoors, having a snug, weather-resistant cover is non-negotiable as it will protect the boat from wear and tear and bad weather conditions. In turn, this helps prolong the lifespan of boats and maintain their shape for years to come.
Flush the boat Cooling System
Finally, you'll want to flush your boat's cooling system before you store her. Drain the coolant and replace it with antifreeze, but double-check your owner's manual for dilution recommendations.
While temperatures vary during the winter, the antifreeze will prevent your internal gears and tanks from freezing, saving you money on repairs in the spring.
You'll find an impressive inventory of new and used boats at our boat dealerships in Texas at great prices. Plus, we offer parts and service, so contact us if your boat needs any repair work before winter storage.