The cold season is coming! To prepare your boat properly, use these marine engine winterization tips from Synthetic Solutions in Raleigh and Zebulon, NC.

After a fun-filled summer on the water, it’s tempting to just park the boat and forget about it until next season. But before you do, there’s one crucial step you shouldn’t skip: winterizing the engine.

Even though North Carolina winters may not seem harsh, cold snaps can still do serious damage. Water left inside your engine can freeze, expand, and crack the engine block. Just like that, your boat could be out of commission, and insurance likely won’t cover the cost.

The good news is that winterizing your boat’s engine is simpler than you think. So, we’ll show you easy marine engine winterization tips to keep your boat ready for many more seasons of smooth sailing. Let’s dive in!

Treat your marine engine to the care it needs! Dial (919) 600-2749 to reach Synthetic Solutions in Raleigh and Zebulon, NC, and get the best AMSOIL products around. Need more supplies? Head to AMSOIL’s online store for all your boat care needs.

Step 1: Start with a Thorough Engine Cleaning

Salt, grime, and barnacle residue aren’t just unsightly; they accelerate corrosion. Begin by rinsing the engine’s exterior with fresh water and a marine-safe degreaser. Pay attention to hidden crevices where dirt hides. Clean air filters and intakes to prevent blockages. Let everything dry completely. Moisture left behind can freeze or promote rust. A spotless engine is the first defense against winter damage.

Step 2: Change the Engine Oil and Replace the Filter

Old oil contains acids and contaminants that corrode internal parts over time. Run the engine briefly to warm the oil. This helps it drain faster and more completely. Once drained, refill with fresh oil formulated for storage. Swap out the oil filter too. A clean system means no sludge buildup, ensuring your engine starts strong when spring arrives.

Step 3: Drain and Protect the Cooling System

Water left in the cooling system is a wintertime enemy. For raw water systems, flush with fresh water using flushing muffs or a similar method. Drain every drop to avoid freezing and cracks. Closed-loop systems also need attention. Check coolant levels and condition. Finally, add marine-grade antifreeze, nontoxic for environmental safety, to protect the engine block and components from subzero temperatures.

Step 4: Stabilize the Fuel System

Stale fuel causes gummed-up carburetors and clogged injectors. Add a fuel stabilizer to a full tank; less air space means reduced condensation. Then, run the engine to circulate the treated fuel through the system. This helps prevent varnish buildup and keeps the fuel system clean. Come spring, you’ll avoid frustrating engine sputters.

Protect your vessel from wear and tear with AMSOIL 10W-40 100% Synthetic Marine Engine Oil. Contact Synthetic Solutions in Raleigh and Zebulon, NC, at (919) 600-2749 to order yours today. Need more gear? AMSOIL’s online store has what your boat needs to perform.

Step 5: Check and Inspect Key Components

Hoses, belts, and spark plugs don’t take a winter break. Inspect hoses for cracks and clamps for tightness. Check belts for fraying or looseness. Remove spark plugs, clean or replace them, and apply anti-seize lubricant to the threads. Look for leaks around gaskets and fuel lines. Fixing small issues now prevents big headaches later.

Step 6: Maintain the Battery

A dead battery is a common springtime surprise. Disconnect and remove the battery, then clean the terminals with a baking soda solution to neutralize corrosion. Store it in a cool, dry place and keep it charged with a trickle charger or monthly top-ups. Label cables for easy reinstallation. A maintained battery means instant starts next season.

Step 7: Final Touches and Storage Tips

For added protection, fog the engine cylinders with a corrosion inhibitor if applicable. Cover the engine with a breathable tarp to keep dust out while allowing airflow. If possible, store the boat indoors or under shrink wrap to shield it from the elements. Keep a log of your winterization steps. It’s a handy reference for future maintenance.

Conclusion: A Little Work Now Prevents Big Repairs Later

Winterizing your boat’s engine is a small investment of time that pays off in longevity and performance. Follow these steps carefully, or consult a marine mechanic if you’re unsure. The reward? No frozen blocks, no corroded parts, and no springtime regrets. Just a reliable engine ready for another season on the water.

Ready to put our marine engine winterization tips into action? Call Synthetic Solutions in Raleigh and Zebulon, NC, at (919) 600-2749 to stock up on premium AMSOIL marine products. Prefer to shop online? Visit AMSOIL’s e-store and get your boat prepped for winter the smart way!