Winter Prep for your Boat: Long-Term Storage Guide
Winter Prep for your Boat: Long-Term Storage Guide.
As the cooler months start and the lake quiets down, It's time to rethink about what happens to your boat as the season ends. It might be easy to park it and walk away, but a little preparation goes a long way in order to save a lot of money and headache when spring comes around.
Winter prepping your boat isn’t an option only for cold states up north but it is needed even in Texarkana, where the weather can swing from mild to freezing overnight, so your boat needs proper care throughout the winter.
At Lockaway Storage South Lake Drive, we make it a priority to help out local boat owners to protect their valuable assets every winter. Whether you are trying to keep your boat stored for a short time or off a year. Here’s some tips to acing your storage game.
Protecting the Engine - The Heart of your Boat:
Lets start with your engine, it is what your boat runs and it can run really expensive, it deserves your primary attention. Fill up your tank and add a fuel stabilizer before running the motor for about ten minutes to run it through the system. This method ensures and prevents your fuel from breaking down and clogging down those injectors. Post that, you can fog the engine using fogging oil to protect internal parts from corroding. Make sure you change the oil before you try to store the boat. The old oil tends to hold acids that could cause rust and damage while it sits through the whole winter. Taking care of this ensures your first startup in spring is quick and stress-free.
Don’t Ignore the cooling system:
Although Texarkana doesn't see a deep frozen winter every year, as local Texans we understand how unpredictable the weather can be here during winters. And one such surprise cold front can cause serious damage. The water that was left in your cooling system can freeze and expand, cracking the parts you wouldn't want to replace. Flush the system with fresh water and add antifreeze. In the same way, you can drain and refill the lower unit with new gear oil for outboard motors.
It’s quite a small job that can save you from big bills, you're welcome!
Give That Battery a Break:
Before you say bye to your boat, disconnect the battery and clean those terminals. Store the batter in a dry and cool place. Make sure you connect it to a maintainer or a charger to keep it from dying over the winter and always ensure it is set on wood instead of concrete to prevent charge loss.
Clean and Dry it:
Once everything is looking good, it is time to clean everything thoroughly on your boat(inside and out). Wash the deck and also hull to remove the algae, grime and salt deposits from whole summer outings on Wright Patman Lake. So let everything dry completely before you try to apply a coat of marine wax.
Go through the cabins to remove life jackets, fishing gear or anything that could collect moisture easily, wipe the seats, clean the carpets and open the compartments for proper airflow. Place dryer sheets to keep pests away. These simple trips work wonders.
Drain Everything:
If you have a well-equipped boat chances are, you have sinks, freshwater systems or live wells. Drain every tank and line, blow them with compressed air or add Antifreeze to avoid unnecessary cracks in pipes or fittings.
Choose the Right Storage Type:
At Lockaway Storage South Lake Drive, we offer climate-controlled units and covered parking spaces built for boats and trailers. Our facility features drive-up storage, personal gate codes, and 24/7 monitoring for security and peace of mind.
If you are looking up boat storages near me, you’ve got options. Outdoor, Covered or even Climate-Controlled Storage. Call your local Lockaway Storage Today and learn about the benefits of different storage type options.
Trailer Care Tips:
Make sure you don't forget the trailer. Look for any cracks, grease the wheel bearing and also check tire pressure and move it slightly every few weeks to prevent flat sports. Do an overall check for your lights and wiring so everything is in good shape to tow you when the season returns. Also use a snug, well-fitted and breathable cover for your boat to keep it safe all winter. Make sure it fits properly and has good underneath support.
Prepare for the Spring:
Before you finish your winter prep, try to make a list of any repairs or upgrades due for your boat, It could be anything from new seats to updating the depth finder. Ordering them now is smart as prices could go up in spring alongside with the demand.
Why is South Lake Drive your Best Bet?
Our Lockaway Storage South Lake Drive location is just a small drive from Wright Patman Lake and close to major Texarkana neighborhoods. We give flexible month-to-month leasing, so you only pay for the time you need the storage.
If you’re looking for affordable Texarkana storage or climate controlled storage units near me Texarkana TX, visit us at Lockaway Storage South Lake Drive.
Call (833) 635-0500 or stop by at the Lockaway Storage South Lake Drive location to speak with our friendly team.
