Motorboat Storage Tips
If you delight in motorboat sports or recreation, you know that you need to take care of your motorboat to enjoy the sports for longer. One way of caring for your boat is by storing it correctly during the off-season. If you're wondering what motorboat storage entails, here are some valuable tips for you.
Know the Different Motorboat Storage Options
The common motorboat storage options are:
- In-water storage. You can store your boat in the water throughout the year in a marina if the winters in your area are relatively mild. You only need to prevent the water from freezing around your motorboat by adding an agitator.
- Dry outdoor storage. You can find this storage in commercial storage facilities such as boatyards.
- Indoor storage. Indoor motorboat storage offers protection against weather elements but is more costly than other options. You can build a specific motorboat storage space in your home or rent a storage space.
The storage option you choose depends on the location, boat size, and the cost of the storage service. Consider getting professional insight to make the right decision.
Repair Your Motorboat
Your boat may have been running the entire season, and you need to check for any damage before storage. For instance, inspect the motor and ensure that it's working well. Also, examine the interior and exterior of the motorboat for damages. If there are any broken, clogged, or faulty parts, perform instant repairs. Any delays can cause complications, and you may spend a lot on repairs or replacements.
Clean Your Motorboat
Dust and debris may accumulate on the exterior or interior. Therefore, you need to eliminate the debris to prevent damage to your boat. For instance, oil spills can cause staining, which affects your motorboat's appearance. Moreover, check the fridge and remove all the food. This prevents the rotting of the food, which may cause a foul odor on your motorboat.
Perform Maintenance
You need to check your motorboat manual for maintenance tips to perform on your motorboat before taking it into motorboat storage. For instance, unplug the battery and fill the fuel tank. Also, replace the oil with antifreeze and lubricate moving parts. Don't forget to apply fogging oil to your engine as well.
Additionally, waxing your motorboat before storing it is essential to prevent corrosion. However, ensure that your motorboat surfaces are clean before waxing. If you wax a dirty boat surface, you'll lock the dirt on the boat surface.
Before storing your motorboat, understand the motorboat storage options available, clean and repair your boat and perform maintenance. Consider these motorboat marine storage tips to safely and effectively store your boat.