Summer has come....summer has gone. It is time to put the boat into storage and the thought of that is kind of depressing... Here are some tips how to best store your boat so that come Spring, your boat will be all ready to launch!
- There are two thoughts as to fuel when it comes to storing your boat. The first thought is to add fuel stabilizer (in the recommended amount) and then top off your tank. Run the boat for a short period in order to distribute the stabilizer. The reasoning behind this theory is to prevent condensation (from a half empty fuel tank) with resulting oxidation and subsequent spoilage. The second theory is to drain the boat of all fuel. This would include the tank, the lines, pumps and carburetor. Read your boat manual and determine which way is best for your boat.
- Leaving a boat full of muddied fluids is only asking for trouble. Do a full oil change and install a new oil filter. Drain all of the transmission fluid, if applicable, and replace it with a fresh batch.
- Dirty filters can cause just as much trouble as dirty fluids. Besides replacing the oil filter, check to see if the fuel filter, fuel tank pick-up screen, carburetor fuel screen and flame arrestor need cleaning or replacing.
- Disconnect the battery and REMOVE it from the boat. Take the battery home and place it on a trickle charger a couple days each month. Clean the terminals with baking soda and spray them with the anti-corrosion treatment.
- Lubricate any cables - i.e. the steering, shift and throttle cables.
- Check the tire pressure and repack the wheel bearings if necessary.
- Wash and wax the boat. Once dry, tape down the exhaust flappers so that unwanted critters can't enter your boat! Apply some type of a protector to the upholstery. Cover the boat with a well made cover, provided with ventilation ports.
- Finally, note the date of the registration tags, certificates and insurance. Plan for renewal if they should expire during your storage term.
So now your boat is clean inside and out! Come park it at All Seasons Storage in Needles, Ca.! We'll take special care of it until you are ready to play with it again on the Colorado River next Spring!