How to Winterize a Boat on Long Island's South Shore

I f you keep a boat on Moriches Bay, the simple answer is: winterize before the first hard freeze, wrap or cover it well, and park it somewhere gated instead of the driveway. South Shore winters bring freezing nights, salt spray and nor'easters that are hard on engines, water systems and covers. Moriches Storage at 192 Frowein Road, East Moriches, NY 11940 offers a gated, paved lot with 24 hour access for trailered boats. Call or text (631) 874-5306, see boat, RV and vehicle storage, or rent online.

Hauling out soon? Call or text (631) 874-5306, see boat, RV and vehicle storage, or rent online.

When to winterize on the South Shore

Moriches Bay boaters usually haul out as the water cools and nights start dropping near freezing. The safe rule is simple: finish winterizing before the first hard freeze, because water left in a block, a raw water pump or a freshwater line can crack it overnight.

If you fish the fall run late into the season, plan a quick winterize the day you haul, then finish the detail work once the boat is on the trailer.

Engine and fuel

Outboards

Flush the engine with fresh water to clear salt, then let it drain fully with the motor trimmed down. Add fuel stabilizer and run it through the system, fog the cylinders if your manual calls for it, and change the lower unit gear oil. Milky gear oil is a sign of water intrusion worth fixing before spring.

Inboards and sterndrives

Change the oil and filter while the engine is warm, flush the raw water side, and fill it with propylene glycol marine antifreeze. Drain or treat the block per your manual. If you are not sure, have a mechanic do it; one cracked block costs far more than a winterizing service.

Fuel tank

Most boaters fill the tank nearly full with stabilized fuel to reduce condensation, leaving a little room for expansion. Follow your engine maker's guidance for your fuel type.

Water systems, battery and gear

Drain freshwater tanks, sinks and washdowns, and run non toxic antifreeze through the lines and the head. Open seacocks once the boat is out so trapped water can drain.

Remove the battery and keep it charged at home or on a maintainer. Take home electronics, cushions, life jackets, flares and fishing gear, which last longer indoors and are tempting to thieves. Clean and dry the interior so mildew does not move in for the winter.

Wrap or cover for nor'easters

Shrink wrap with vents is the standard for boats that will sit outside through South Shore storms. A fitted canvas cover works if it is tight, supported so snow and water do not pool, and vented to prevent mildew.

Block the trailer, check tire pressure and grease the bearings before parking. Point the bow so rainwater drains off the stern.

Where to park the boat for winter

A good winterize in fall means an easy launch in spring. Flush, stabilize, drain, wrap and park it safe. Moriches Storage on Frowein Road, close to Moriches Bay, is ready. Call or text (631) 874-5306 or rent online.