However, it’s vital that you prepare your boat for storage to make sure that it isn’t susceptible to damage or wear. Luckily, at Big Box Self Storage, we are here to help. We’ve put together a simple guide to getting your boat ready for storage.
1. One last run
Run your boat one last time before storing it and keep an eye and an ear out for any issues that will need to be sorted beforehand. Then drain the water from your boat: remember the bilge, water tanks, pipes, seacocks, and head.
Give your boat a good scrub on the hull and interior, removing anything that could grow in the meantime (plant life and barnacles). Then make sure it is fully dry before storage to prevent mildew. Remove all organic materials (leather and fabric) to prevent mildew build-up.
2. Prepare the engine
Flush the engine and coolant system with fresh water to remove debris inside, then refill the coolant with antifreeze. Replace any oil and all filters, apply fogging oil to the spark plug entries and carburettor, and remove and store drive belts separately.
Finally, fill the tank up and run the engine for 15 minutes so the additives can reach the fuel lines.
Apply grease to the steering system, control mechanisms, and propellor to keep them lubricated over the following months, and remember to use moisture-displacing lubricant on any metal moving parts to avoid rust. These include latches, linkages, and hinges.
Recharge the battery to full before storing it in a warm, dry place. Do not leave this in storage with your boat.
3. Cover and store
Choose a cover that is durable against even extreme winds. Once covered, keep checking on your boat every few weeks to remove snow or rain deposits and repair any problems.
4. Checks for coming out of storage
Once you’re ready to bring your boat out of storage, there are a few checks you need to do before you hit the water again.
Make sure you thoroughly inspect the hull and propellers for cracks or dents. Check the belts and hoses which can become brittle from disuse. You should also assess all safety gear, including life jackets, fire extinguishers, and GPS and radio systems. Finally, give the exterior and interior a full, deep clean.
For all your boat storage needs, get in touch with our team.