Winterizing

[Timmins]

I have a new boat and wanted to be able to winterize it myself. The engine is a MerCruiser 4.3 MPI 220 HP V-6. The proper steps to complete this task would greatly be appreciated. I live in S.C. and the winters are fairly mild if that makes any difference

 

[WillyBWright]

Re: Winterizing

If you plan on doing your own maintenance, get a factory service manual. It'll show exactly what to do, and could be a very valuable asset for all maintenance procedures. Aftermarket manuals use generalizations which can easily lead to an expensive misstep. Average cost for replacing a freeze damaged motor is $3,000 to $5,000 plus. We've had a half-dozen such self-winterizings this year. BE CAREFUL! Sometimes, the money spent having a pro do it is well worth the cost. All of the owners involved deeply regret having cut corners for the sake of a hundred bucks or so.

 

[Timmins]

Re: Winterizing

Thanks for the reply, I will heed your warnings.

 

[codfather II]

Re: Winterizing

RTSC, I'm far from a mechanic! I pay the marina to winterize my engines. All things considered, it's not that expensive. My marina changes the oil, filter, fuel filter, etc. I have peace of mind knowing it is done correctly. If you have have a "freeze problem" come spring, the marina is responsible.

 

[rarmstrong2]

Re: Winterizing

Folks..if you own a boat that stays in the water full time do you still need to winterize? I fellow boater at my office mentioned that if I leave the boat in the water 100% of time (except when I pull out to clean) then I don't have to worry much about winterizing. He said if I wanted to be sure I could leave a lightbulb running in the engine compartment (I have power at the slip). I live in Charlotte where our lakes never freeze. The ambient air temp will freeze on occasion, though. Is this good or bad advice to me in regard to winterizing. <br /><br />Thanks in advance.

 

[sea wolf]

Re: Winterizing

I wouldn't trust a light bulb in the bilge. If there's a power outage or the bulb burns out, you're out of luck.

 

[rarmstrong2]

Re: Winterizing

Thanks Sea Wolf. What are the other circumstances? If the water doesn't freeze will this keep the engine from freezing? At what time of year should the boat be winterized? Thanks.

 

[rbezdon]

Re: Winterizing

no, OK for outboards where all the water in the engine is at or below lake level but the inboard engine is still vulnerable to a good solid freeze. A light bulb and the warmth of the liquid lake below the boat can help but no garantee.