In order to prolong the life of your boat, it is vital to understand how to properly care for the vessel, even when it is in storage. When deciding to store your boat, research is key, so we compiled tips recommended by experts for when it is officially time to put your boat in storage. Here are the top tips for storing your boat:
This rule might seem basic, but unkempt items is a common malpractice in storing anything. Even when you are not storing your boat for long, it is important the vessel is clean beforehand to prevent grime from building up. Cleaning your boat helps avoid staining and mold from growing inside. It is a good idea to add another layer of protection by waxing the body of the boat with wax. Not only will the wax protect the boat from dirt and grime, but it also prevents rust, ensuring your vessel will last longer.
Securing the engines, propellers and motors is important when storing your boat to ensure no harm comes to these parts of the vessel, saving you time and money for next season. To secure the engine, empty everything out of the fuel tank by running the engine after closing the fuel outlet to prevent fuel from harming injectors or carburetors. Fogging the engine is also recommended to avoid moisture build-up. Remember, it is imperative to remove the propellers and outdrives.
Change the Oil
Every vehicle owner knows how important it is to change the oil on a regular basis, so why would a boat be any different? Changing the oil and the oil filter prevents engine corrosion, saving owners thousands of dollars. To change the oil in your boat, flush out the remnants of the old oil with water. Be sure to drain the remains entirely before adding new oil to your vessel.
Disconnect the Battery
Before storing your boat, many experts recommend removing the connections to the battery to prevent it from being drained and top it off with distilled water. These small actions will help lengthen the lifespan of the battery, and avoid battery changes when it is time to use your boat once again. We also recommend recharging your battery occasionally, especially when storing the vessel for an extended amount of time.
Cover the Boat Up
Once again, this may seem like a basic tip, but it is commonly ignored when storing any type of vehicle, whether it be a car or a boat. Boat covers are a necessity to prevent the accumulation of dirt, grime, dust and moisture. Through using a cover, you only need to do minimal cleaning the next time you decide to take your vessel out on the water.
Taking the time and effort to store your boat properly will save you time and money in the long run. Boat parts can be thousands of dollars to repair, but damage and build-up can easily be prevented through proper care. Beltline and Security Stor-Alls is proud to be Mobile’s storing solution, and can answer any questions you may have about the storing process or how to take care of your items in storage! Contact us today by visiting our website or giving us a call at one of our locations.
Services Offered at Beltline & Security Stor-Alls:
Climate Controlled Storage | Non-Climate Controlled Storage | RV Storage | Boat Storage