Winterize Your Boat Now!

While you are enjoying the last few weekends on the water this year, it may be hard to turn your thoughts to preparing your boat for winter in dry dock. However, a little preparation now will ensure you will enjoy many trouble-free hours on the water next season. Wholesale Marine carries an extensive line of winterization supplies that you can depend on to optimize seasonal maintenance and to maximize your enjoyment on the open water!

Wholesale Marine's End-of-the-Season Winterization Checklist:

  1. Change the Oil: Engine oil contains acids and retains moisture so to protect engine parts against rust and corrosion, it is an important first step to drain the engine oil. This can be quickly and easily done with one of our oil change pumps. We also carry the correct oil and filters from Mercuiser, OMC, Volvo as well as aftermarket from Sierra Marine.
  2. Fuel Stabilization: Fuel breaks down inside the engine allowing harmful elements such as gum and varnish to develop. This contributes to hard starts, poor engine performance and shortened engine life. Prevent these issues by adding a quality marine fuel stabilizer to a full tank of fresh fuel to prevent fuel from breaking down. Run the engine for a few minutes to treat your entire engine system.
  3. Flush and Drain Coolants: Water is used to cool most engines. And we all know that water expands when it freezes which could cause engine damage. Here's how to safely drain coolant from your boats engine. We recommend using the DIY Winterization Kit:
  4. Protect Internal Engine Parts: Gravity rules. In storage, fuel will drain to the bottom of the engine exposing some components to possible corrosion and cylinder scuffing next season. Wholesale Marine recommends using a fogging spray to penetrate deep into the engine and to coat parts with a protective layer of anti-corrosive compounds.
  5. Replace Gear Oil: Drain gear oil and add a fresh supply as indicated by the manufacturer.
    PLEASE NOTE: Thick, lumpy, or milky oil may be an indication that a reseal could be required.
  6. Clean and Wax: Your boat will thank you later! Turn to Wholesale Marine for the best boat wax products!
  7. Take Cover: Dry storage is best; however it may be too expensive for your budget. Acceptable alternatives include shrink wrapping your craft or covering it with a durable cover from Taylor Made.

Quick Review

Outboards:

Flush System, Change Engine Oil if applicable (4 Strokes), Stabilize Fuel, Grease Fittings, Change Gear Oil.

Sterndrive:

Flush System & Fill with Antifreeze, Change Engine Oil , Stabilize Fuel, Grease Fittings, Change Gear Oil.

When you speak with a representative from Wholesale Marine, you are speaking with someone who shares your passion for boating. Our knowledgeable staff will be glad to assist you with your winterization questions or any boating questions you may have. Call us M-F- 9AM to 6PM EST at (877) 388-2628 - we look forward to hearing from you!