Winterization of an LT1 - Checklist

[jakethebt]

Well.. first time winterization of an LT1. I have read tons of posts and modified Eastie's (JimN?) checklist and supply list to be specific to the LT1. I have chosen to drain the block, fill with antifreeze and dry block again as it seems a bit more fool proof for noobies and meets all concerns. I have also re-orderd the checklist a bit so you can go right down the list in order. So... have a look and let me know what you think.

[mikeg205]

Originally Posted by jakethebt

Well.. first time winterization of an LT1. I have read tons of posts and modified Eastie's (JimN?) checklist and supply list to be specific to the LT1. I have chosen antifreeze vs dry block as it seems a bit more fool proof for noobies. I have also re-orderd them a bit so you can go right down the list in order. So... have a look and let me know what you think.

I would recommend VR1 Synthetic 20w50 or Royal Purple HPS 20w50. 1996 I believe still a flat tappet engine.

[1redTA]

Originally Posted by mikeg205

I would recommend VR1 Synthetic 20w50 or Royal Purple HPS 20w50. 1996 I believe still a flat tappet engine.

the LT1 is a roller engine

[jakethebt]

I had a hard time just finding 20W50. Only brand I could find was valvoline. I was hoping for a choice or two. Maybe Mobil1. This was just this past spring. Maybe this fall I will find a better selection.

[1redTA]

Originally Posted by jakethebt

I had a hard time just finding 20W50. Only brand I could find was valvoline. I was hoping for a choice or two. Maybe Mobil1. This was just this past spring. Maybe this fall I will find a better selection.

i would run good 10w30 on an LT1 the bearing clearances do not warrant 50W oil

[jakethebt]

Originally Posted by 1redTA

i would run good 10w30 on an LT1 the bearing clearances do not warrant 50W oil

Everything that I can find say 20w50.

Oil was about the last thing I figured we would be talking about after posting the winterization list... I guess you guys think the tasks, order, etc are ok?

[JimN]

I didn't see anything on those lists about removing the hull plug(s), putting them in a plastic bag and attaching them to the steering wheel or throttle. They can be put in a cup holder, but that allows for them being moved and mis-placed. If the boat somehow gets wet and the plug(s) aren't out, bad things happen.

RV anti-freeze is bad for the heads. This was hammered into our heads at MC training every time I went. It may not happen after one time, but it's not worth risking, IMO.

If no anti-freeze is used, remove the hoses on the engine at their lowest points and turn them so any water in them can drain out. Crank the engine to clear the raw water pump or loosen the cover plate, to allow any water that's above it to drain out.

At some point, the bearings and brakes on the trailer need to be serviced- at least check them, annually if the boat is trailered frequently.

[mikeg205]

Originally Posted by 1redTA

the LT1 is a roller engine

Cool - wasn't sure...was looking it up and found flat tapped on '94s - would still run VR1 Synthetic/Royal Purple

[Ben]

I don't use antifreeze on mine. Was told its bad for the alum heads. Assuming you are using rv stuff, not real antifreeze which would be un tree huggerish.
Also i think I've been using 15/40 for a while now.

[ricford]

X2 on the antifreeze. I've heard the plumbing antifreeze is hard on the aluminum heads. I leave my LT-1 dry.