Winter is right around the corner, and you don’t want it to sneak up on you. Before temperatures drop, it’s time to ensure your boat is protected for the off-season. One of the most important steps in boat ownership is winterizing your boat.
What is Winterizing Your Boat?
Winterizing your boat means preparing it for freezing temperatures and extended periods of storage during the winter months. The goal of winterization is to remove all water from the boat. If there is water in the engine, it could freeze, expand, and crack your engine. “Cracked block” is a term that refers to a situation where water left in the engine causes damages and requires replacements or repairs.
Why You Should Winterize Your Boat
Winterization isn’t just a seasonal chore – it’s essential protection for your investment. When temperatures drop, if even a small amount of water is left, it can cause major damage. Winterization doesn’t just apply to your engine. If any water is left in the ballast tank, it can also cause the ballast tank to crack. A cracked engine and ballast tank can ruin the first lake day of the season. You don’t want to get ready to hit the water only for your boat to be damaged.
How to Winterize Your Boat
While some boaters handle winterization on their own, the safest and most reliable option is to schedule this service through your local MasterCraft dealership. Dealers have the expertise to make sure every system is winterized correctly. During the process, dealers will run antifreeze through the proper lines making sure all water is out of the systems.
Your winterization service is also the perfect time for maintenance to be performed. Get your boat serviced during the winter so you don’t have to miss a perfect summer day. Some dealerships even offer winter storage options to keep your boat protected from all winter elements.
Don’t wait for it to get cold; schedule your winterization today. Protect your investment and make sure you’re ready for next season.
FAQ
What Do Dealers Do to Get Rid of the water?
Most dealers will run antifreeze through the engine and ballast until it runs pink. Pink signifies there is no water left in the pipes.
when should I winterize my boat?
You should winterize your boat before temperature drops below freezing. For planning purposes we recommend mid-fall before the temperature drops. Plan ahead and contact your dealer as soon as possible to get on their schedule.
Could I add upgrades during the winter?
Winter is a great time to schedule upgrades. Your dealer can make the upgrades while your boat is out of the water.
