It’s been a great boating season, and you had fun this year. However, all good things must eventually end, and before you know it, it’s time to store your vessel. You might not have special heavy-duty yard trailers like the marinas, but you can still keep your boat safely secured during the offseason. Here are some helpful tips to get you started.
Take a Final Trip
Why not take your boat out one more time? You deserve the extra outing, and this is the perfect time to check out everything on the vessel. Is the motor running rough or have you noticed any other issues? Now is the time to take care of these things because if the boat sits for a long time, it can make things worse.
Don’t Use Blocks of Wood
When you level your boat for storage, you may be tempted to use whatever is available, but this can be a mistake. Marinas have hydraulic yard trailers, and special stands made just for specific boats, for good reasons. You should consider investing in some high-quality boat stands. They will keep your vessel safe and secure all winter long.
Engine Maintenance
Don’t forget to change the oil and if possible, remove the drive belts. It’s more work, but this can extend the life of your belts considerably. It’s also a good idea to use fogging oil to protect the engine while it sits.
Do You Really Want to Store Your Boat in Your Driveway?
If you store your boat at home, all kinds of things can go wrong. For example, someone could vandalize it or you might accidentally back your car into it. Check out the rates at a good marina nearby. They have heavy-duty yard trailers and special equipment to handle and secure your vessel. They’ll take good care of it and have it ready when you need it.