Winterization tips for do-it-yourselfers:

This week daytime temperatures are dipping into the 60’s and it finally feels like fall outside.  Enjoy these cooler temperatures by taking your boat out for a quick drive while you can.  Traffic on the lake will be at a minimum; you may have the lake all to yourself.  It may be a little chilly for water skiing and tubing, but it’s a delightful time for a nice drive on the lake or even spending the day fishing.

While you are enjoying the last few weeks on the lake, keep in mind that the task of winterizing your outboard or sterndrive is around the corner.  Winterization must be completed before the first hard freeze.

What is a responsible boat owner to do? You have two choices:

1. Have your boat engine winterized by certified mechanics
(Our blog next week will cover tips on having your boat repair shop complete your winterization. If you want to get ahead of the rush, bring your boat into our shop now while the wait is minimal.)
2. Winterize your motor on your own.
For the DIY boat mechanic, preparation is key in winterizing your boat.  Having the correct marine grade oil, lube and fuel stabilizer is important to prevent potential damage down the road.  Picking this up at the auto store or large discount chain is not the way to go.  If you are saving money by doing the task yourself, put some of that savings towards genuine Mercury Marine, Evinrude Johnson, or Volvo-Penta oils and lubes.   Below is a list of what you need before you begin winterization.  Stay tuned for more winterizing tips on this blog or search our archives for tips from previous seasons.

US Boatworks customers can enjoy 10% off your DIY boat winterizing supplies below when mentioning this blog- carry out only.

Outboard – 2 Stroke
Gear Lube
Fogging Oil
Fuel Stabilizer
Outboard – 4 Stroke
Anti-freeze
Fogging Oil
Fuel Stabilizer
Engine Oil, Oil Filter, and Gear Lube

Sterndrive:
Antifreeze
Fogging Oil
Fuel Stabilizer
Engine Oil
Oil Filter
Gear Lube