Winterizing your boat

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Winterizing your Boat or preparing for long term storage is necessary even in the Houston area. Untreated fuel in fuel tanks and fuel systems will go stale, absorb water and gum up critical fuel system components. Sitting for more than 6 weeks without use will result in poor Engine performance and the Engine may not start at all.

It does occasionally get cold enough in the Houston area to freeze-damage cast iron cylinder blocks and exhaust manifolds found in Inboard/Outboard Boats. These Engines are Automotive style Engines that have been modified for Marine use. These Engines use the water that the Boat is being used in to cool the Engine. If Engine cooling water is not properly drained, it could freeze if temperatures drop below freezing (32 degrees Fahrenheit or 0 Celsius) for 10 hours or more. The freezing water expands inside the Engine causing extreme pressure and can crack the cylinder block, cylinder heads and exhaust manifolds causing major damage and the need to replace the Engine and manifolds. For expert advice on Winterizing your boat and motor. Call or come by and see us.

Happy Boating!

Author

Ken Wood is a Factory Trained & Certified Marine Technician with over 30 years experience in the industry.