Tips for Proper Boat Storage

Boat owners don’t typically look forward to wintertime and as summer is winding down, any boat owner starts missing their time on the water, even when you’re on the water. You must start thinking about storing your boat for the winter, and everything you must do to properly store your boat. Below find some basic steps to help you prepare your boat for storage.

The are many benefits to be had from storing your boat correctly and whilst it may take a little time to get the job done right, it will only save you money and stress by following good boat storage procedures.

Below you will find a few tips that need to be followed in order to make sure that your boat has been stored correctly and you will need to have the following equipment in order to get it ready for storage.

1. Fuel Stabilizer

2. Storage/Fogging Oil

3. Anti-Corrosion Spray

4. Spray Lube

5. Trailer Jack

6. Tools

The first thing we are looking at is fuel stabilizer which helps to stop condensation forming in the fuel tank and fuel lines and therefore this needs to be added to a full tank of gas first. When adding the fuel stabilizer, it is important that you follow the manufacturer’s instructions to the letter. Now start the motor on flusher for approximately 1 minute in order to push the treated fuel through the fuel system.

Now we come to fogging oil this is applied to the carburetors. You will find that most boat motors have fittings for applying fogging oil. However, if yours does not have such a fitting then you will need to find openings where this oil can be applied (you may even have to remove the carburetor cover to do this). However, what you should remember is that fogging oil will make the motor of the boat smoke more than is normal when you run it the first few times.

Next you will need to unhook the flusher and drain the gear case and then refill with fresh lubricant. If you happen to notice water in the flushed lubricant this may be a sign that the shaft seal needs to be replaced. It is important to remember that a bad seal if not replaced could cost you $1,000’s or more in repairs.

The spark plugs should be removed and spray fogging oil into the cylinders, also clean the housing and coat electrical connections with an anti-corrosion spray. Also replace the removed spark plugs with new ones.

Next you should inspect all the steering cables both on and in the steering column and clean out any grime and then let the shaft air out. Ensure that all cables have been sprayed using anti-corrosion spray.

Now you will need to disconnect the battery and clean all the terminals and spray these with anti-corrosion liquid and then store it properly. Also remember to put the battery on charge for a couple of days each month whilst the boat is in storage.

The motor of your boat should be tilted downward in the running position and cover with a motor cover. It is important that you do not use plastic to cover the motor as it will trap moisture against the motor instead use either a cloth or canvas covering (it allows the motor to breathe).

If your boat is being kept on a trailer inspect it fully and grease all the bearings on it. Also check the tires and spray any unprotected metal or iron parts with an anti-corrosion spray.

So now it’s time to find a place to actually store your boat, check out StorageLookup.com to find the best place near you.

Now you have correctly stored your boat by following the tips above you will be able to relax and look forward to next season. We welcome any additional comments or tips to help make this boat storage tips better, comment below or send us an email at info@storagelookup.com