Facebook

STORAGE TIPS

Boat Storage Kelowna Tips: Winterize Your Boat Like a Boss

Posted on August 23, 2016

Boat Storage in Kelowna

If you're getting ready to put your ride into the boat storage Kelowna boaters rave about, check out our winterization checklist first.

It's been a fantastic summer for boating, the weather has been hot, the water has been cool, and the weekends of playing on the water have flown by. Now that the kids are heading back to school, it's probably time to start thinking about choosing boat storage Kelowna boaters rely on. But before you do, check out our winterization checklist to make sure your favourite possession is ready for its winter hibernation.

 

The Interior

  • Thoroughly clean the interior
  • Make sure the bilges are clean and dry
  • Make sure the carpets and upholstery are dry to prevent mildew growth
  • Remove the plug and store it in a place (preferably on the boat!) where you'll remember it next season
  • Remove tow ropes, lifejackets, fire extinguishers, flares, wakeboard, electronics, towels, and anything else you've kept in your boat during the season and store in a dry, climate-controlled area

 

The Electrical

  • Thoroughly inspect and repair any electrical connections or wiring
  • Inspect and remove the batteries and keep in a climate-controlled area, like your storage rental unit or attached garage. Don't forget to charge them once a month to keep them in perfect condition

 

The Engine

  • Change the engine oil and filter while engine is warm. Run the motor one last time afterwards to distribute fresh oil throughout
  • Flush the engine with fresh water and drain
  • Inspect spark plugs and replace if necessary
  • Circulate antifreeze through engine block and manifolds
  • If required, change drive oil
  • Inspect all hoses and replace as required
  • Inspect and repair fasteners as needed
  • Apply a protective coating of grease to all external engine fittings
  • Inspect belts and replace if necessary

 

The Fuel System

  • Change the fuel filter
  • Top up the fuel tank
  • Add a fuel stabilizer
  • Drain the fuel lines

 

The Exterior

  • Give your baby a nice sudsy bath, making sure to remove all dirt and debris
  • Inspect and repair any damage to the hull
  • Apply a fresh coat of wax
  • Remove the propeller and inspect for damage (This would be a great time to repair or replace the propeller instead of waiting for the next boating season)
  • Thoroughly clean the propeller shaft and daub on a protective coating of grease
  • Place the cover on the boat, or consider having it shrink wrapped

 

The Boat Trailer

  • Remove and inspect trailer wheels
  • Clean and repack wheel bearings
  • Check the trailer brakes and repair if necessary
  • Inspect and, if necessary, repair the trailer lights
  • When parking the trailer at a boat storage Kelowna facility, ensure the bow is raised higher than the stern to promote drainage

 

Taking the proper preventive measures now will assure that your boat will be ready for the new boating season. When the spring comes and you're antsy to get back on the water, your freshly rested boat will be ready to hit the boat launch with you.

 

Now that your boat is all shined up and ready for winter, check out our previous post to help you find a Kelowna boat storage facility: Boat Storage: 5 Things You Need to Think About First.

 

If you're looking for a safe and secure place to store your boat during the winter season, consider Space Centre storage. We offer boat storage Kelowna boaters can rely on. With coded entry and exit, security cameras, and patrols, you can be sure that your boat is in good hands.

Share This: