Winterize ????

[Armymedic427]

I am a new boat owner and I have a 1991 VIP Fish and Ski I/O. I live in MO and it gets below freezing here during the winter. I am curious what I need to do to winterize my boat. I this something that I (not mechanically inclined) can do myself or is this something that I should have a professional/shop do. How much does it normally cost and about how long does it take for them to do it? because my boat is stored at the lake 2 hours away from my house.

Thanks,

Aaron

 

[HT32BSX115]

Re: Winterize ????

Hi Aaron!


Well you could start with indicating what you have. (we don't know what engine your VIP has in it.....there are many)


Having said that, if you want to be able to do normal maintenance, a service manual will help.

In a nutshell, you MUST drain every component that has water in it or can be pooled in it. This includes the block, manifolds, water pump hoses, power steering and engine/transmission oil coolers (if installed).

Also, most manufacturers will reccommend changing engine (and transmission) oils right before winter layup.

This is a 2-fold thing. you put fresh oil in the engine and V-drive so it doesn't sit all winter with possibly contaminated oil, AND you inspect the used eng/trans oil for water intrusion.

There's also engine "fogging" in which you run the engine and spray a "fogging" oil into the induction system so as to "coat" the internals right before final shutdown, with a thin film of oil that will help prevent internal corrosion.


A manual will give you more info..... And have a look-see at the following
[h=3]So, You want to WINTERIZE your own boat[/h]


Regards,


Rick