The nights are getting cooler here in the high desert areas of New Mexico and if you own a boat or personal watercraft, it’s time to winterize.  If you missed the Rocky Mountain RV and Marine boat winterization seminar, here’s a recap of the information you need to know.  The time and effort you take now will protect your boat’s performance and help maintain its value.  It will definitely save you money and potential trouble when you go to use your boat next spring.  Your insurance policy, most likely, will not cover damage done by lack of maintenance or neglect.

The absolute ideal place for your boat to be stored is out of the water, under cover and in a climate-controlled environment – if you can afford it!  Another option that we demonstrated at our seminar is shrink-wrapping your boat.  Shrink-wrapping provides a water tight and secure cover over your investment.

If you’re having your boat winterized by a dealer or marina, make sure that the services being done comply with everything that is suggested in the owner’s manual for your boat, motor and trailer.  Marinas have a standard winterization program that will cover everything you need to have done if your boat is docked in a slip.

The engine also needs to be protected from freezing and condensation.  Water has to be removed from the block so that freezing doesn’t occur.   Freezing water will expand and crack the engine block and other vital parts.  This is the time to change any filters and replace lubrication grease and oil.

Engines are “fogged” for protection.  This procedure helps protect the cylinder walls and pistons.  A fogging oil is sprayed into the motor and the engine stalls.  Water repellent grease should be applied to the propeller shaft and threads.

Fuel in the tanks can be a problem in the spring unless you use a stabilizer.  It’s recommended that you fill your tanks completely and then add the proper amount of furl stabilizer.  Filling your tanks will help prevent condensation from forming.  Change the water separators and fuel filters at this time.

The boat’s bilge needs to be cleaned and dried.  Use an environmentally safe soap to clean up any spills from within the bilge.  Put a small amount of antifreeze in the bottom of the bilge to help prevent any water left in the bilge from freezing.  Remove the seacock so that any water in the bilge will drain out of the boat.

Clean out the interior of your boat and take all electronics, lines, life vests, fire extinguishers, flares and valuables inside for the winter.  This the perfect time to check or replace these items if needed and you can give them a good clean up too.  Another good idea is to place absorbing tablets and hangers inside the boat to help keep moisture at bay.

The batteries should be removed and brought inside too.   Place the batteries on a wooded surface – not concrete – and connect to a trickle charger.  A battery placed on concrete will lose it’s charge.

Always check your owner’s manual for recommendations on winterizing your boat or watercraft and their engines.  If you have never done a winterization before, get help from an experienced friend or take it to a professional.  By following these few simple suggestions, your boat should be in great shape for the winter.

The Rocky Mountain RV and Marine parts and accessory department has what you need to complete a winterization of your boat.  If you decide to leave it to the experts, just send the service department an email or give us a call at 505-292-7800 to arrange for your boat to be serviced.