Winterization in heated storage?

[tflradio]

My boat will be stored this winter in a heated facility with a back-up generator. Do I need to winterize the engine, drain the water and ballasts etc. if the boat is in heated storage? I have a 2010 216V.

[charlesml3]

No, you don't need to do a full winterization. You should, however, stabilize the fuel in the tank with Sta-Bil or something. Make sure after you add the stabilizer that the engine is run long enough for the now stabilized fuel to get all the way around.

-Charles

[tflradio]

No, you don't need to do a full winterization. You should, however, stabilize the fuel in the tank with Sta-Bil or something. Make sure after you add the stabilizer that the engine is run long enough for the now stabilized fuel to get all the way around.

-Charles

thanks, Charles

[Quinner]

Considering it will likely sit unused 5-6 months I would also fog the cylinders, remove impeller and serpentine belt. At that point a drain only takes another 5 minutes so why not just do it for peace of mind.

[tflradio]

Considering it will likely sit unused 5-6 months I would also fog the cylinders, remove impeller and serpentine belt. At that point a drain only takes another 5 minutes so why not just do it for peace of mind.

How often does the serpentine belt need to be replaced? I have already ordered the impeller to replace it.

[Quinner]

My 2005 with 600hrs still has it's original serp belt, inspect it for cracking, if none it should be fine for another season.

[DaveNH]

I replace the impeller every 2 years. I don't have a serp belt, my boat is older, but keep a spare set of belts in the boat, if one breaks it's a quick fix.

On serpentine belts, take a close look for cracking on the inside of the belt, when you see that you need to think about replacing it soon. I'd replace it if you see any cracking, but still keep a spare in the boat. Why need a tow and end your day on the water when an inexpensive spare part will get you going again in a few minutes.