Winterizing

[bull12001]

Just out of curiosity, what indicators does everyone use as to when to winterize an inboard? Here in VA, we have a weird period of time in late fall where we have days that are perfect for boating but then gets a little chilly at night. Outboards are pretty easy, lower them down, but I'd hate to winterize an inboard and then end up getting some more perfect days and miss them because the motor and outdrive is already winterized.

 

[joelybob]

Re: Winterizing

HOLY CRAP!! don't rush the season

 

[aerobat]

Re: Winterizing

as long the boat is in water you should not get in trouble in freezing damage even when the air temperature drops below freezing at night. be careful when you store it on land.

 

[agallant80]

Re: Winterizing

We have the same issue in NC. I will put the boat up when the first freeze comes along. With that said I must go through about 20 gallons of the pink stuff because if it gets nice out again I will take the boat out then have to re-winterize the block.

 

[skydiveD30571]

Re: Winterizing

Just drain the block and manifolds if you have doubt. It takes a whole 15-20 minutes on most setups. I don't add antifreeze until I'm set up good for the winter, but in the mean time I just drain everything if I'm worried. Air doesn't freeze.

 

[Bondo]

Re: Winterizing

Just drain the block and manifolds if you have doubt. It takes a whole 15-20 minutes on most setups. I don't add antifreeze until I'm set up good for the winter, but in the mean time I just drain everything if I'm worried. Air doesn't freeze.

Ayuh,.... I start drainin' mine in October if it's goin' on the wagon,...

As noted, Air Don't Freeze, 'n that's how mine sits, All winter,....

Dry,....

 

[bull12001]

Re: Winterizing

What's the easiest way to drain everything on a 3.7 L I/O Mercruiser? Pull end caps off the heat exchanger? Any way to blow it out with air?