I need some reassurance about semi-winterizing...

[Dante04SRT]

Its been getting into the low 30's for the last to weeks at night and I'm worried that my "Winterizing" methods aren't going to cut it. Add that to the fact that I just replaced my entire motor (which was cracked), I'm a little paranoid.

Is draining the block of water via the 2 drain plugs (manifold and block) adequate for storage during the winter? Part of the reason I don't want to go the antifreeze method is that I will still be using my boat throughout the winter on occasion.

Thanks.

 

[Lou C]

Re: I need some reassurance about semi-winterizing...

I'm not familiar with the Merc 3.0 but I know for the OMC version, you are supposed to remove those plugs (rod em out with a long wood screw to make sure they drain!) and you are supposed to drain the hose that comes from the transom to the thermostat housinng. I would also remove the large hose on the front of the engine that goes from the water pump to the thermo housing and let the water pump drain. Finally make sure the drive is all the way down, it drains itself. Engines that have power steering often have a power steering cooler that has to be drained too. Best to get a good manual (there is a Merc one on line somewhere) to make sure you do it right.

 

[Bondo]

Re: I need some reassurance about semi-winterizing...

Ayuh,........ Your Merc. drains Just like Lou's OMC.....

If you follow Lou's advise,............ You'll have Nothing to worry about come Spring..............