Boat winterizing and spring commissioning

A boat on a trailer needs its winter prep done before the cold sets in. Fuel, batteries, the engine's cooling system and anything that can grow mildew all need attention before storage. In spring, the safety gear and the systems that keep water out get checked before launch.

In the fall

• Top off the fuel tanksLeave a little room for the gas to expand. A full tank cuts explosive fumes and helps prevent phase separation in gas with ethanol. Add stabilizer so the fuel doesn't break down.
• Charge the batteries and take them homeCharge them fully, take them off the boat if you can, and store them somewhere warm. Coat the posts and terminals to keep corrosion off.
• Winterize the engine by the owner's manualOutboards, sterndrives and inboards each have their own steps for the oil and the cooling system. Follow the manual, or have a marine mechanic do it. Water or a creamy liquid in the drained oil means a seal needs replacing, and metal shavings need professional attention.
• Use a real winter coverA Bimini top isn't one. It gets torn up or ages early in winter weather and doesn't protect the boat. Store it inside the boat or take it home.
• Take the removables homeThat means electronics, the registration papers, cushions, life jackets, anchor lines and dock lines. Cushions that have to stay should be propped up so air reaches both sides.
• Open the lockers and bilge coversThen hang a mildew-control bag inside.
• Check the flares and the extinguisherLook at the flares' expiration dates and the fire extinguisher's charge, and bring the first aid kit inside to restock anything wet or expired.
• Bring a small outboard into the garageIt's safer from theft there.

In the spring

• Charge and reconnect the batteriesTop up lead-acid batteries with distilled water, charge them fully, and clean and tighten the cable connections.
• Work the seacocksOpen and close each one. The handles should move freely.
• Check the running lights
• Test the bilge pump and high-water alarms
• Test the smoke, carbon monoxide and fume detectorsThat includes any LPG or gasoline fume detector.
• Check the safety gearLook at the flare dates, the extinguisher's charge and the life jackets.
• Check the fuel hosesThey should be supple, with no cracks, bulges or soft spots. Wipe the lines and connections with a clean rag and smell it for gasoline. Flexible gas lines should be marked "USCG Approved, J1527". Have a marine mechanic replace any that aren't, or that fail the check.
• Look for cracks in the outdrive bellowsLook closely at the folds.
• Check the props on a boat that's ashoreLook for dings, pitting and bending.
• Check for leaks after launchInspect around the rudder and every through-hull fitting once the boat is in the water.