Winterizing - Do I need to?

[robe_uk]

Hi all,<br />I have a rib with twin mariner 60hp which is mainly used for diving, During the winter I try to get out a run at least once a month to keep the engines sweet. Do I need to winterize considering the short time the boat is idle, if so what do I do? <br />I got the boat at the begining of summer and have just ordered a manual to service the engines myself. I was charge GB£300 (US$500) earlier this year so I think I will save this time around <br /><br />Thanks everyone<br /> My diving page

 

[rickdb1boat]

Re: Winterizing - Do I need to?

If you are sure you are going to run it at least once a month during the winter, I see no reason to "Winterize" it, as such. You may want to add some fuel stabilizer on each run, just in case you don't get to run it often as you like. This will keep the fuel fresh for the next outing. I would change the lower unit fluid, just to be sure it's up to par and has no water in it that may freeze and crack the lower unit. Other than that, you are basically running it like many others would at any other time of the year. Oh Yeah, make sure the lower unit is kept in the verticle position when stored. This way the water will drain out of the leg after use, avoiding freezing. Hope this helps.