To help you store your boat for the winter, here are a few essential steps.
1. Outboard Motors
Rinse with fresh water or by rotating it in a tank filled with water. Clean the head and external surfaces. Install new oil and fuel filters. Fill the oil tank. Lubricate all pivot points, inner and outer seals and propeller shaft. Disconnect the battery (recharge it during winter). Cover the engine with a waterproof tarp, then place it in a dry place.
2. Inboard Motors
Run the engine to warm up, then drain the oil while it's hot. Impurities will drain more easily. Change the oil filter and transmission fluid. Flush the engine with fresh water. Circulate antifreeze through the header by placing the end of the water pump feed hose in a bucket of antifreeze. Start the engine and let it run to circulate the antifreeze until the water starts coming out of the exhaust. Remove the spark plugs and replace them if necessary, and put engine oil in each cylinder. Wipe down the engine with a little bit of oil spray.
3. Septic Tank
Drain it, then fill it one-third full with water and a bag of ice cubes. Your final sail with this mixture will complete the cleaning and remove any remaining odours. Drain it one last time, then add antifreeze to the clean tank.
4. Water Supply System
Empty your water supply systems (washing machines, dishwashers, ice-makers, etc.) and pour antifreeze down to the taps. Put some in drains too.
5. Exterior Cleaning
Remove dirt, salt stains and traces of debris. Scrub not only the deck, but also the hull to remove the slimy film. Proceed as soon as the boat is out of the water, as these unwanted elements wash better when wet.
6. Interior Cleaning
Remove anything that can trap moisture and cause mildew. Remove cushions, curtains, blankets, sheets, pillows, towels and clothing. Clean and dry the bilge thoroughly. Do not leave rags, sponges or other cleaning accessories in the hold. Clean the galley, empty the cupboards and defrost the fridge and freezer. Keep doors, cupboards and vents open for adequate air circulation.
