Without a doubt, a lot of effort goes into preparing a boat to be stored during the winter months. Preparation is imperative to prevent damage as temperatures dip. However, the vessel must also be prepped for a spring, summer, and fall boating season. Here are 5 things to remember when you are de-winterizing your boat. 

Replace The Drain Plug

Importantly, the drain plug must be removed when winterizing a boat. The reason that the plug is pulled is to allow water to drain from the bilge. 

Unfortunately, when drain plugs are left in, the boat is subject to freezing. It is unlikely that the bilge will crack, but ice can cause damage to other components, including bilge pumps. 

With that said, it is imperative to reinstall the drain plug after freezing weather has passed. Remember, you don’t want to launch a boat with the plug left out. 

It is always a good idea to double check the plug is in place before backing the vessel down the launch ramp. 

Charge The Batteries

The harsh winter temperatures can wreak havoc on marine batteries. Marine lead core batteries are subject to cracking or losing the proper level of distilled water. 

During the winter, it is always a good idea to perform a one time charge. While it is not recommended to leave the batteries on a charger, topping them off once in the winter is best for battery health. 

In the spring, when de-winterizing the boat, remember to charge them before heading to the ramp. Additionally, I suggest turning on marine electronics and cranking the boat motor to ensure the batteries have enough power when needed. 

Look For Cracks

Part of the winter preparation includes draining water from the engine block, running the motor until it is dry of fuel, and emptying the bilge. 

However, vessels are still subject to suffering from cracks in multiple locations. Cracks form as a result of frozen water expanding. I have winterized boats several dozen times and, fortunately, never encountered any cracking. 

However, when preparing a vessel in the spring, it is always a good idea to look for cracks. I recommend inspecting the hoses and fuel line running from the tank and into the motor. In the event you see a split hose, it must be replaced. 

Secondly, although uncommon, look into the bilge area for any signs of cracking. If the drain plug was removed, it is not likely that the bilge would suffer from cracking. 

Lastly, engine blocks that are not drained are at risk of cracking. After freezing weather has passed, take a close look at the engine block. Unfortunately, cracked blocks can be challenging to spot. However, exam before heading back out on the water for the first time. 

Test The Bilge Pump

One of the most critical components in keeping you, your guests, and the boat safe is the bilge pump. 

Bilge pumps, as you know, perform the roll of removing water from the lowest point of the vessel. The pumps are particularly important in heavy rains or rough seas. Unfortunately, water inundation can be severe, thus needing to be removed quickly.

With that said, you don’t want to be out on the water only to realize the bilge pump has failed during the winter. 

A precautionary step when de-winterizing the vessel is testing the bilge pump before the vessel is launched. 

Change The Fluids

Boat engine routine maintenance is important because it helps keep the motor in optimal condition. You don’t want to become stranded on the water as a result of failing to keep up with regular maintenance intervals. 

After a long winter, it is critical to change the motor fluids. Adding fresh fluids keeps the internal components of the engine properly lubricated. 

As the spring approaches, drain the lower unit oil in addition to the engine oil. Remember to inspect the lower unit oil to ensure it is not milky. Milky lower unit oil is a sign of damage to the lower unit housing. 

Once the oil is drained, replace the engine oil and the lower unit oil. Make sure that the levels are correct before running the boat.

Remember These 5 Things When De-Winterizing Your Boat

Fortunately, it doesn’t take much to de-winterize your boat. Keeping these 5 things in your mind will help you to have a better first run when the water thaws. Preparing the vessel in the spring does not require a significant amount of time. You’ll be up and running before you know it.