How To Winterize a Ski Boat

Winterizing Can Save You Thousands in Repairs

Winterizing your ski boat will protect it from the elements of winter. Failing to winterize could result in thousands of dollars in repairs when you attempt to hit the water after a long, cold few months of neglect. The following information will help you take the vital, proactive steps to make sure your boat is in excellent working order when it's time to hit the water next season.

Things You'll Need

• Anti-corrosion spray
• Anti-freeze
• Motor oil
• Anti-fogging spray
• Boat cover
• Grease
• Gas and oil cans

Instructions

1. Change engine oil. Run your engine for 10 to 15 minutes to warm the oil. Turn engine off and drain oil into a pan. Replace with new oil and let your engine run long enough for the fresh oils to work its way around vital engine parts. Dispose of old oil in a place where it won't cause harm to the ground, plant or wildlife. Only use approved containers.

2. Winterize your cooling system. Some boat owners prefer to drain their cooling systems completely and leave it empty for the winter. However, it is better to leave it full of a proper mixture of anti-freeze and water during cold months. Drain the cooling system into a metal bucket by removing the drain plug. Refill with fresh water and add antifreeze, topping off the system.

3. Fog your engine. With the engine running, spray fogging oil into the carburetor until the engine starts to sputter. Turn off the motor, remove the spark plugs and spray the cylinder. Replace plugs, start the motor, and allow it to run for a few seconds. This procedure will keep your cylinders clean and lubricated while the engine sits. When you are finished fogging, disconnect the distributor wire.

4. Clean your fuel. Drain your gas by disconnecting your fuel line, allow gas to pour into an approved can. Replace your fuel line and refill the gas tank. Add the proper amount of fuel stabilizer. Stabilizer will allow the gas to stay fresh and fight off condensation. Refer to your engine guide and fuel stabilizer instructions for the proper amount of stabilizer (see "Resources" below).

5. Remove your battery. Remove your battery or batteries. Clean terminals and cables thoroughly. Allow your battery to fully charge after removing it from your boat. Store batteries in an enclosed garage. Do not set them on the bare floor. To prevent damage and power drainage, elevate batteries on a piece of wood.

6. Prepare drive system and belts. Loosen your alternator, power steering and other belts so they hang loose. Tight belts will crack and break from the cold.
   Make sure your drive systems are properly lubricated. Whether you have an inboard or other drive system, you will need to properly grease and oil your gear house and other working, interlocking parts (Refer to your engine guide).

7. Grease your steering column. Using the grease called for by your manufacturer, apply liberal amounts on the steering arm connections, rods, and hydraulic parts, if you have them. Make sure you grease unexposed steering rods. This can be done by fully opening the throttle, and exposing the rods. Return the throttle to its normal position when finished.

Tips & Warnings

• Always refer to your manufacturer's guide. Winterization techniques may differ slightly, depending on the type of your boat. Grease your propeller. Some owners don't find it important, however, greasing your boat's propeller will help it stay in working order come spring.

• Never dispose of gas and oil where it can harm the environment. Contact the EPA office in your state for instructions, or call a marina for instructions.

Resources

• Fogging Oil
• Gunk Fuel Stabilizer