As the freezing weather approaches, every boater in Canada knows it's time to prepare their boats and personal watercraft (PWC) for winter storage. Proper winterization will go a long way in helping you protect your investment from damage that might be caused by the frigid temperatures that characterize Canadian winters and ensure that you can enjoy smooth rides again come spring. But what exactly do you need to do in this regard? Here are the steps you should take to safeguard your boat or PWC's essential components, including the engine, fuel system, cooling system, and more.

Step 1: Prep the Engine and Fuel System

Making sure the engine and fuel system are ready for severe winter conditions is one of the most important steps in winterizing your boat or PWC. Starting with the fuel tank, you need to add a fuel stabilizer. This will keep the fuel system clean and prevent fuel degradation. It is also important for boat owners to give engine fogging some thought. To protect internal engine components, such as the spark plugs and engine block from corrosion in cold temperatures, fogging oil should be sprayed on them.

Step 2: Protect the Cooling System

The cooling system of your boat is susceptible to freezing temperatures. As such, boat owners should empty all water from the cooling systems, water systems, and hoses to prevent expensive repairs. To prevent freezing and protect the engine block, the water should be replaced with non-toxic antifreeze. For particular directions on the type and quantity of antifreeze required for the cooling system of your boat, you may need to refer to your owner's manual.

Step 3: Change the Oil and Lubricate

Before winter storage, you really need an oil change. This is because old engine oil might contain contaminants that might corrode your engine. To guarantee peace of mind, you need to drain the engine oil, change the filter, and top it with fresh oil. Remember also to grease any moving components, including the throttle and steering cables.

Step 4: Address Mildew and Moisture

Mildew growth brought on by moisture presents one of the toughest problems boaters encounter during winter storage. To prevent this problem, you need to make sure all areas—especially water systems and storage spaces—are dry after pulling your boat or PWC from the water. Put moisture-absorbing items all over the boat—including the cabin and compartments—to reduce the risk of mildew development.

Step 5: Store Your Boat Safely

Winter storage is not just about parking your boat or PWC; you need to find the right location and cover your boar or PWC properly. If possible, you should store your boat or PWC indoors. If indoor storage is not feasible, you should ensure your boat is adequately shielded from harsh winter conditions with a top-quality cover designed specifically for winter storage.

By taking these essential steps, boaters and personal watercraft owners in Canada can ensure their vessels remain in top condition during freezing temperatures, providing a smooth launch when the warm weather returns. Proper winterization will save you time, money, and hassle, giving you peace of mind until your next ride. Contact FFUN Motorsports for more details on how to winterize your boat or PWC in Kenora, Portage, or Winnipeg.