How To Winterize an Inboard Boat

Once wakeboarding and waterskiing are wrapped up for the summer season, it’s time to prep your inboard boat for winter storage. Learn how to winterize inboard boats the best way with these steps.

Warm the Engine to Winterize Inboard Boat

Before you begin the winterization process, the boat needs to be able to run in the water. If that’s not an option, attach it to a continual water supply via the hose.

Fill the Tank to Winterize Your Inboard Boat

Water and engines don’t mix! A full tank of gas will prevent air from getting into the tank and causing condensation.

When you fill the tank with gas, add a fuel stabilizer to prevent buildup in fuel lines and injectors. Always consult your owner’s manual for suggestions and specific directions.

Add Antifreeze to Winterize Your Inboard Boat

Antifreeze prevents water from freezing, which can cause expansion and cracks. Follow your owner’s manual for instructions on how to drain your coolant, and then replace it with propylene glycol antifreeze (it’s nontoxic for water environments).

Spray the Engine with Fogging Oil

Fogging oil prevents corrosion in your inboard boat’s engine when you winterize it, which can begin in as little as a month. You’ll want to follow the instructions from your fogging oil manufacturer, or use this guide.

Winterize Your Boat with an Oil Change

You don’t want old, contaminated oil sitting in the engine all winter. Change the engine’s oil and replace the oil filter.

how to winterize an inboard boat

Clean & Spot Check Everything

Clean the exterior of your inboard boat to winterize it, touch up painted areas, and apply anti-corrosion lubricant to unpainted parts. Once you’ve cleaned and painted, take these last spot-checking steps:

  • Disconnect the battery and charge it fully. Store in a cool, dry place separate from your stored boat.
  • Leave the engine box cover propped open to increase ventilation.
  • Don’t forget about the equipment on your boat! Clean and organize your fishing rods, wakeboards and/or boat tackle.

Store Your Boat with SecurCare Self Storage

SecurCare Self Storage has locations across the U.S. near popular boating destinations. We offer outdoor and indoor boat storage and parking spaces so you can choose the best solution for after you winterize your inboard boat. We know that as the weather warms you’ll be anxious to get your boat back on the water, which is why we offer several units you can drive up to at your own convenience – letting you hit the waves whenever the time is right.

Winterizing your boat is crucial for a successful reappearance come springtime.  If learning how to winterize inboard boats isn’t your thing, consult your boat dealer or mechanic—they’ll be happy to help!

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