Boat Winterizing in Michigan

Boat docking Michigan comes with its own set of challenges. Extreme temperature drops mean that proper winterization is a must for boat owners. Winterization requirements vary depending on boat and engine model, but best practices include stern drive maintenance, inboard and outboard engine maintenance, and choosing indoor or outdoor storage.

Removing plant life and barnacles from the lower unit prevents damage to the boat’s infrastructure. Further growth can be prevented by thorough washing with soap and water or power washing. Hydraulic steering and lift pump fluid levels should be topped off to prevent uneven expansion and freezing.

Changing the engine oil while it’s warm ensures that it drains more fully. Topping off the engine with new oil protects the engine as temperatures drop below freezing. Flushing antifreeze through the water pump coats the boat engine and protects it further from damage caused by freezing temperatures.

The fuel remaining in a boat tank should be treated with the correct amount of fuel stabilizer. It is important to remove the fuel line and run the engine to burn off the fuel left in the engine’s carburetors. Applying water resistant grease to the boat’s propeller shaft and threads will prevent condensation from gathering and freezing on the engines surface. Waxing the exterior of the engine will provide a water-resistant barrier as well.

Outdoor storage for boats involves taking anti-freezing measures like suspending water agitators to bring warmer water to the surface and keep the moored boat from being encased in ice. Batteries should be fully charged, and the boat should regularly be checked to avoid leaks. Outdoor storage is often cheaper because it does not require a secondary storage location outside of the marine in which it is docked.

Indoor storage for boats often comes in heated and cold storage. Indoor storage can be safer for boats, but it is often more expensive. Thorough power washing before storage will keep sea water from rusting a boat’s exterior. Seacocks should be opened to allow the water to drain. Water left in a boat’s exterior will freeze and expand, which can cause serious damage. 
Owner’s manuals should always be followed to ensure that no important winterization steps are missed by the boat owner or the employed boat docking professionals.