Watercraft Maintenance & Preparing For The Off-Season

As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop in the Coulee Region, it's time to start thinking about putting your watercraft into hibernation for the off-season. Properly winterizing and storing your watercraft is essential to ensure it’s ready to hit the water again next season without any issues. At 2Brothers Powersports, we understand the importance of taking the right steps to protect your investment during the off-season. In this guide, our experts will walk you through the process of winterizing and storing your watercraft, discuss common issues that can arise during the off-season, and offer tips to prevent them. Plus, learn how 2Brothers Powersports can assist with our comprehensive winter storage solutions.

Why Winterizing Your Watercraft Is Essential

Properly winterizing your watercraft is about more than just stowing it away for the winter; it’s about protecting it from damage that can occur when it’s not in use. Watercraft are exposed to harsh conditions, and without proper care during the off-season, issues such as freezing, corrosion, and battery degradation can arise. These problems can be costly to repair and may even shorten the lifespan of your watercraft. Winterizing your boat or PWC helps prevent these issues, ensuring your vessel is ready to perform when the weather warms up again.

Step-by-Step Guide To Winterizing Your Watercraft

1. Clean And Flush The Exterior And Engine

Before storing your watercraft, it’s crucial to thoroughly clean both the exterior and engine. This removes any salt, algae, dirt, and debris that can cause corrosion or damage during storage.

Clean the Hull: Use a marine-grade soap to wash the hull, removing any grime, salt, or organic material. For pontoons, be sure to clean the aluminum surfaces thoroughly.

Flush the Engine: For boats and PWCs with internal engines, flush the cooling system with fresh water to remove unwanted debris. 

Dry Thoroughly: Allow the exterior and engine components to dry completely to prevent any residual moisture from causing rust or mildew during storage.

2. Stabilize The Fuel System

Fuel left in your watercraft over the winter can degrade, leading to clogs and engine issues when you’re ready to use it again.

Add Fuel Stabilizer: Pour a marine-specific fuel stabilizer into the fuel tank and run the engine for a few minutes to ensure the stabilizer circulates throughout the system.

Top Off the Tank: Filling the fuel tank reduces the amount of air inside, which helps prevent condensation that can lead to corrosion.

3. Drain And Protect The Cooling System

Any water left in the cooling system can freeze and expand, causing significant damage to your engine.

Drain the Cooling System: Open all drains and let the water out of the cooling system. For inboard and sterndrive engines, be sure to drain the manifolds and block.

Use Antifreeze: For larger boats, flush the cooling system with non-toxic, marine-grade antifreeze to ensure that any remaining water doesn’t freeze.

4. Battery Care

Proper battery maintenance is essential to ensure that your watercraft starts up easily in the spring.

Disconnect the Battery: Remove the battery from the watercraft and store it in a cool, dry place.

Trickle Charge: Use a trickle charger to maintain the battery charge throughout the winter. This helps prevent the battery from draining and extends its lifespan.

5. Protect The Interior And Upholstery

Taking care of the interior is just as important as the mechanical components.

Clean and Condition Upholstery: Wipe down all seats, cushions, and other upholstery with a marine-safe cleaner. Consider using a conditioner to protect the materials from drying out or cracking.

Remove Electronics: Remove any electronic devices or accessories and store them in a safe, dry place. This includes GPS units, stereos, and fish finders.

Ventilation: Place moisture absorbers or dehumidifiers inside the boat or PWC to prevent mold and mildew from developing over the winter.

6. Cover Your Watercraft

A high-quality cover is essential for protecting your watercraft from the elements during storage.

Use a Marine-Grade Cover: Invest in a durable, marine-grade cover that fits your watercraft snugly. This will protect it from dust, debris, and moisture.

Elevate the Cover: If possible, elevate the cover slightly to allow air circulation and prevent water from pooling on top.

Common Off-Season Issues And How To Prevent Them

1. Corrosion And Rust

Even small amounts of moisture can lead to corrosion and rust, especially in the engine and fuel system. Thoroughly drying the watercraft, using fogging oil, and stabilizing the fuel can help prevent these issues.

2. Battery Degradation

A neglected battery can lose charge or become damaged during the off-season. Disconnecting the battery and using a trickle charger will keep it in good condition.

3. Rodent Infestation

Rodents can cause significant damage by chewing through wires and upholstery. Storing your watercraft in a secure, monitored facility can help prevent this.

4. Frozen Water

Any water left in the engine or cooling system can freeze and expand, causing cracks and severe damage. Draining the system and using antifreeze are crucial steps to avoid this problem.

2Brothers Powersports Winter Storage Solutions

At 2Brothers Powersports, we offer comprehensive winter storage options for all types of watercraft, including PWCs, pontoons, and boats. Our storage facilities are climate-controlled and security-monitored, providing the perfect environment to protect your watercraft during the off-season. We also offer convenient pick-up and delivery services for stored vehicles, making the process as hassle-free as possible. Plus, take advantage of our specials on parts and service while your watercraft is in storage, so it’s ready to go when spring arrives.

Conclusion

Properly winterizing and storing your watercraft is essential to maintaining its condition and ensuring it’s ready for action when the warmer weather returns. By following the steps outlined above, you can prevent common off-season issues like corrosion, battery degradation, and freezing damage. If you prefer to leave the process to the experts, 2Brothers Powersports offers a range of winter storage solutions designed to protect your investment. Visit us in Onalaska, Wisconsin, to learn more about how we can help you prepare your watercraft for the off-season and ensure it's ready for another season on the water.