new boat owner

[jagtrs]

i'm in jacksonville. just purchased my 1st boat a few months ago and still learning the ins and outs of boat ownership. when/if do i need to winterize?any help/tips would be appreciated.

[samsiam74]

If you use it often through the winter, no winterization is needed.... If you're going to store it all winter that's a different story...

[Sea Snake]

Doesn't get cold enough down here to winterize....just fire those engines off every once in a while and you're fine.

Better yet use it, lot's of things to catch in the winter...


Steve

[jagtrs]

so nothing special to do on those sub freezing night we get every now and then? the boat will be ran at least every other weekend

[samsiam74]

If we get a real cold spell that lasts for more than a day or two, I might run some antifreeze into the water pick up... I'm no expert though and mine is stored inside. A much better expert on the subject would be Wade, "reel mayhem" on the forum... I'm sure he'll add to the thread when he gets a chance.. If you don't see something in a bit, PM him.

[reelhooker]

Is the motor 2 or 4 stroke? Are you planning on letting it sit for more than a month or so without cranking and let it run?

[jagtrs]

its a 4 stroke. im hoping to take it out at least every other weekend, but if i'm not able, i can run it in the driveway

[fijon]

I've not heard of anyone winterizing outboards here, an inboard may be a different story. a buddy with one does a few things opening some valve and draining any water from the cooling system. Usually drags me along on the coldest night to help.

[aitkenkingfish]

The only issue you might want to watch for is if we have several freezing days & you store it outside make sure you top the motor down. I have heard of people getting cracks in the foot from standing water if the motor is tipped up. Especially if you live on the water where the temp can drop earlier & stay colder longer.

[Kapn Skinny]

"Especially if you live on the water where the temp can drop earlier & stay colder longer. " ????

I'm no Tim Deegan but, the the water will actually keep the temperature up and prevent it from freezing.

If you every get worried about it, than cover the motor and put a drop light under the the cover. That will prevent any thing from freezing.