how to keep my block and heater core from freezing

[Ryan CA]

hey guys putting the boat in the water this week and i see its gonna be 28 thurday night, likely our last freeze here on the central coast, wats the easiest way to keep my block and heater core from freezing overnight if i don't want to winterize it? To be honest I'm not even sure where the heater core is located. any info would be much appreciated.

[NautiqueJeff]

If it is going to sit in the water, I wouldn't be too concerned about 28. The temperature of the water will keep the boat and engine above freezing. If it will be out of the water on a lift or on a trailer, you might want to just pull the blue plugs. It takes all of five minutes.

The heater core is separate from the engine compartment, and requires disconnecting the two red lines that run to it from the engine, and blowing the water out. This adds about another five minutes to the winterizing process.

[Ryan CA]

thanks Jeff, i appreciate the info

[DocPhil]

you could get one of these

https://www.amazon.com/Caframo-Pali-.../dp/B00MEMRGZE

But it probably won't protect the heater core.

[Skidave]

There is also the incandescent light bulb trick too. Place a 60 watt bulb in a socket, plug it in and place it safely in your bildge in the engine compartment. This won't save you from a deep freeze, but it will keep your engine compartment warmer than the outside environment on an evening where temps will be below freezing.

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[charlesml3]

wats the easiest way to keep my block and heater core from freezing overnight if i don't want to winterize it?

The easiest way is to head to Wal-Mart and get a cheap electric blanket. Drape it over the engine and set it on a medium heat. Your block will NOT freeze and the blanket will never get hot enough to melt any wiring or hoses. You may need to get another one for that heater core. Your owners manual should show you where it's located.

[DLafont]

Unless that cold (cool really) spell lasts for a few consecutive days with the temperature remaining below freezing the whole time, you shouldn't even worry about it. A mechanic once told me that unless the temperature remained consistently below freezing (day and night) for less than 4 days, you should be ok. That being stated, all the suggestions above are right on par, a small heat source under you boat cover will do the trick, and draining the new engines seems so simple you should go ahead and do it just for better sleep.