BOATING TIPS -- OCTOBER 1994
Winter Layup

Well, it's that time of year again when we're planning for our winter's boating --- or should I say non-boating --- activities. If you're like me, you've got some projects in mind for the season when most of us don't spend too much time out on the water. I thought I'd spur your memories a little bit with some winter-layup reminders, some of which came from the east coast boat magazine, Soundings.

For the boaters who keep their vessels on trailers, don't forget to give the trailer a little care. Wash it with a mild detergent and rinse it well. To keep the tires from getting severe flat spots, block the axle during the winter to keep the tires off the ground. And while you're at it, check the tires for cuts and/or uneven wear, schedule the wheels for alignment or balancing if necessary. While the tires are jacked up, reduce the air pressure, but don't forget to pump them up in the spring. And cover the tires with black garbage bags to reduce their exposure to the damage from sun and ozone.

For all boaters, take everything off the boat for the winter, and prop up all cushions you don't remove to prevent mildew from getting a foothold. (Taking everything off will be a good reminder of how much you've put on over the summer: just remember that everything you keep on your boat consumes fuel to carry around!)

Of course, you'll empty the holding tank, and put in some deodorizer. If the boat will be exposed to the cold, get some alcohol-based anti-freeze (some folks just use vodka) and protect your fresh water system after draining it (don't forget the hot water heater!). DON'T use glycol, though, get the stuff that's designed for water systems. (Try an RV supplies store for this). Run the stuff through until it comes out all faucets. If you have them, don't forget the windshield washers.

On the other hand, top the fuel tanks to minimize condensation during the winter. Change the engine oil, to keep those nasty accumulated acidic byproducts of combustion from corroding anything they're touching. If an outboard, make sure the fuel is drained, the engine run dry of fuel before layup, with the lower unit greased and manufacturers recommendations complied with.

Sailboaters will want to add lines to their rigging to avoid halyards banging the mast in the wind, reducing wear and tear on these critical lines. Check the swaged fittings on all rigging, too.

For boats outside, get the junk off the deck, including coiled lines: this stuff just holds water to repeatedly freeze, thaw, and collect dirt. Wash the deck, getting our northwest moss out of the corners! Of course, you'll have washed the rest of the boat, too, getting all the salt off so that the finish will remain as nice as possible throughout the winter. Then rig your canvas covers so there won't be any puddles, or whipping loose corners not tied down.

Check your mooring lines and fenders if your boat is going to stay at the dock. It's truly dumb to lose or damage your valuable boat because you wouldn't give her a decent dock line! Also, please be sure your extension and shore power cords and electric heaters are all in good repair, free of corrosion, and fully rated for the service they're in. We've had too many electrical fires on boats, it seems!

And time for my annual reminder: if your boat stays in the water, try to run the engine(s) and generator when there is not a lot of fresh water on the surface of the bay. Don't leave your boat with the sea water lines full of fresh water to easily freeze. Many folks shut their seacocks in the winter.

And then, when you've done it all, head for the south or Hawaii! You've earned it!

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