488r winterizing

[roffey]

I have a 488R (3.7 merc) with a closed cooling system. I am putting it away for the winter. I checked my owners manual and all it asking I do is check the antifreeze to make sure it's at the right level. With my other I/O I had to run antifreeze through water muffs.

What I did for the out drive was grease where I could, remove the prop and put the out drive in the down position and blow air through the drain holes in the drive. Should I do more? I know there is stuff still to do on the motor.

 

[roffey]

Re: 488r winterizing

I think I have my answer. From Stonyloam
" Buy a cheap little antifreeze tester and check the engine antifreeze, should be about 50/0 automotive antifreeze. When you pull it out for the last trip of the season, simply remove the transom drain plug and remove the AFT drain plug on the heat exchanger and let it drain (only water will come out). I do it right on the ramp. That's it freeze protection is done"

 

[stonyloam]

Re: 488r winterizing

You got it!! If this is a new to you boat I would suggest that over the winter you pull the outdrive and change the impeller, to make sure your raw water cooling system is in good shape next spring. It is VERY important that you have good raw water flow through the exchanger. Especially if you have the 3" exchanger. After that change the impeller every couple of years and you should never have a overheat problem. While you are at it you can grease the u-joints. Welcome to the "470 Club":facepalm:

 

[roffey]

Re: 488r winterizing

It is a new to me boat, my last one was a 26 ft Wellcraft. This boat is much easer for everything. It will fit in my garage so I will change the impeller. Thanks for the advise.