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The Online Magazine FOR and ABOUT Southside Virginia

2/14/2026

Boating In Southside

Winterizing your Boat Motor

 By Mary Yeaman

   We just officially passed the first day of autumn. For many, this means saying goodbye to the summer. For boat enthusiasts, this translates into a need to winterize their boat motors. �What is winterizing and why do we have to do it?� you may ask. Simply put, winterizing is preparing your boat motor for cooler temperatures and a lengthy period of disuse. During the winterizing process, it�s also a good time to address any annual maintenance requirements. This may include gear oil changes, gel coat repairs, etc.

   The first problem that needs to be addressed during the winterizing process is draining and preparing the engine so that it won�t freeze during the cold winter months. The steps required depend on the type of engine that you have. If you have an outboard, you can continue to use your engine throughout the winter without worry. Just store the engine in the upright position so that water is allowed to drain. If you have an inboard/ outboard, this engine has to be drained. It is also recommended that the block be filled with antifreeze to further protect it. Inboard/ outboard engines won�t be used again until all danger of freezing has passed.

   The second problem to be addressed during winterizing has really risen in significance in recent years. This problem is fuel instability. Since most fuels now contain some level of ethanol, gas separates if it sits unused for a period of time. The prevention of this is easy as there are products designed to stabilize the fuel. The important point to remember is this: Don�t just dump stabilizers in the tank! Make sure to run the engine a bit with the stabilizer so that it makes it into the engine.

   The main point is this: When you take the time to winterize properly, your boating experience is better. You have the opportunity to head issues off BEFORE they become costly problems. Fall is also an excellent time to schedule additional repairs that would normally take time away from being on the water because marine service centers are slower than during the busier summer season. Sounds like a WIN-WIN for everyone!

   Mary Yeaman of Hughes Marine Service in Danville, Virginia. Hughes Marine has been providing outstanding customer service to marine customers in Southside Virginia for over 45 years. Check out their website www.hughesmarineservice.com .

   DISCLAIMER: The information contained in this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional performed service. This information is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to provide an exhaustive source for winterizing information.