Get your boat ready for winter!

Even though it may still be warm out, it's time to start thinking about winterizing your boat now, before the temperature drops. It's a common misconception that winterizing is only necessary in the most northern or frigid parts of the country. The fact is, mild California reports the most winter-damage insurance claims of all the 50 states. The majority of winter damages happen when boaters don't expect inclement weather and don't bother winterizing their boats. The combination of freezing temperatures and low boat use in the off-season can cause irreversible damage to a range of your boat's critical systems. That's why prevention is the key. Your boat will start up on the first try next spring if you winterize correctly with quality products.

For boats kept on the water during the cold season, we strongly suggest regular checks of the following systems:

* Check all shore power connections (watch for warning signs like warm plugs or hardened points near connectors).

* Examine mooring lines, fenders and boat covers.

* Run the engine(s) for an hour at least once a month.

* Open the bilges and cycle bilge pumps to ensure function for next year.

Each spring, boatyards and suppliers make a fortune repairing and replacing parts damaged during the harsh winter months. You'll save a bundle if you replace damaged and aged equipment before the winter gets its icy hands on your craft.

Winterizing Your Engine

All freshwater systems must be winterized using antifreeze in the tank and throughout pipes. Otherwise, the residual water in the system (even after draining) will put your pipes and pumps at risk of burst damage. Seafit's line of antifreeze products, available only at West Marine, is available in -50[degrees] F, -60[degrees] F and -100[degrees] F formulations and provides what you need to keep your lines and pumps thawed and lubricated. This top-quality antifreeze uses 100% virgin non-toxic ingredients and no fillers that dilute effectiveness and harm pump diaphragms. It also delivers a higher concentration of propylene glycol antifreeze than other brands.

Use your existing flusher and a regular garden hose, combined with West Marine's Engine Winterizing Kit to easily coldproof your outboard or sterndrive. This helpful tank holds up to 5 gallons and allows you to flush water out and pump antifreeze into the system--even while trailered.

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Additionally, you'll need a chemical rust-inhibitor to fight internal corrosion in your engine, so you won't have to repair it in April. Your best choice is Star Brite's Fogging Oil. It's so easy to use and you'll be relieved when your 2- or 4-stroke gas or diesel engine starts up next season without coughing or sputtering.

Protecting Your Boat's Exterior

Hulls can collect a heavy coating of gunk during the winter months. That's why you need a maximum strength solvent that won't damage fiberglass. West Marine's Heavy-Duty Hull Cleaner removes unsightly stains from grassy marine growth, rust, ice and waterline surface scum--all without any scrubbing.

Don't forget to protect your boat with a quality boat cover--one that's mildew resistant and water repellent. WeatherPro Boat Covers, available exclusively at West Marine, are available in sizes and styles for virtually every model of trailer boat, from bass boats to cuddy cabins, and feature super-strong 600-denier polyester fabric, rather than the standard treated-cotton fabric used by other covers. The four-ply seams won't tear or unravel, and the soft but tough 1-inch tie-downs won't put dings or scratches on your boat's hull.

Protecting Your Boat's Interior

Your best bet for preventing moisture, mildew, rust and rot in your cabin and compartments is a 100-V Turbo-Dryer Dehumidifier from West Marine. It will raise the ambient air temperature in your cabin above the dewpoint, so the damaging effects of moisture won't get a chance to take hold. Left unattended, moisture can begin to break down materials and surfaces in your boat's interior in just days. But by keeping the cabin warm and dry, you'll find it pristine and clean next year--just as you left it. Dehumidifiers are economical too--this one uses less energy than a 100-W light bulb to keep your boat bone dry.

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Be sure to check the following systems on your boat:

* Check all hoses and undo hose clamps to check for corrosion of the band.

* Exercise the electrical switches by turning them on and off a few times.

* Turn the steering wheel side to side to check for stiffness or binding.

* Prime centrifugal pumps.

* Open and close seacocks.

* Check refrigerant because engine-driven compressors may have dried or leaked during an extended shutdown period.

With so many quality products and proven techniques available, it's easier than ever to winterize your boat. You'll rest easy all winter long knowing that your boat is protected and cared for--and most importantly, ready to go when the first warm day rolls around next boating season!

All products mentioned in this article are available exclusively at West Marine stores, online at www.westmarine.com and by calling 1-800-BOATING. If you need more help getting started, give us a call. Our winterizing experts are standing by 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to assist you.

By Chuck Hawley, Vice President of Product Development, West Marine

COPYRIGHT 2004 Boat Owners Assn.
COPYRIGHT 2004 Gale Group