Winterizing

[BJ Laster]

I am going to be running my nitro and mercury throughout the winter. Do I need to winterize it? I will be using it at least once a month in winter tournaments here in Oklahoma.

 

[Tony Payne]

I would suggest atleast changing the lower unit grease and checking the bearings on the trailer... That's what I do.



if you end up getting stuck, you can run the motor in the drive with muffs for a minute or two to keep the cylanders oiled.

 

[Michael Snow]

No, you don't need to winterize it. Of course, what Simnitro is talking about is maintenance, and the more you use a boat (or car), the more maintenance it needs.



IF you're ONLY going to use the boat once/month, you might consider jacking up the trailer to keep the tires from getting out of round from the weight. If it's at home, you can just move it a few inches and resolve the issue.



Don't forget your water pump impeller.

 

[David Hunt]

Keep stabilizer in the fuel tank.



david.....

 

[Bryan Fary]

keep the motor straight up and down when not in use to keep all the water drained out.



when you change the lower unit grease, if it comes out milky looking, replace the rubber seals on the plugs. milky means water is in the lower unit. that is a BAD thing.



bryan

 

[Larry Harp]

I run all winter too. Just like everyone suggested use Stabil in the fuel tank and tilt the motor to drain the water from the cooling system. To be on the safe side I will also give it a few cranks with the kill switch off (to make sure it doesn't start out of the water) just to be sure all the water is out. I keep the battery charger on all the time too.



Harpo