Fellow sailors, Ugh, winter is coming... We're really thinking about keeping the boat wet this winter. We live in Michigan, so 99% of the marina's freeze over completly, but we found one that dosen't. The marina has a natural "river" flowing through it, it's never froze over. We've never done this, so would appreceate any tips from thoes experienced in this situtation. Some things we're thinking about: Fresh water system - Do we need to drain and winterize? We're thinking so, but would like some advice. Head/waste holding system - Can we continue to use the system as normal? This is a big question of ours. AC/reverse cycle system - Can we use the system as normal for heat or should the system be winterized and just use space heaters? Diesle fuel - Do we need to be worried about frozen fuel in the tank/lines? Shrink wrapping - What's the best way to construct they typical rib cage looking frame to shrink wrap around? Venting - Suggestions? Moisture contol - Suggestions? Long term securing, protection - We have the big round orange fenders plus a lot of the typical ones. Batteries - Any thing to consider here? They are stored in a cockpit lazerette. FYI - We have a 40' boat with a diesel. Thanks very much for taking the time to read and reply. Matt and Amanda
In water winter storage
- Thread starter WuWei28
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Are you planning to live aboard?
If so, you should be able to just use all systems normally. If not, how do you plan to use the boat at all if most of the water outside your marina freezes over? Even if you just plan to spend weekends on it at the dock, you may not be able to get there in some weather conditions. That can spell major trouble for at least some of your systems if they haven't been winterized, especially anything above the waterline...'cuz nothing below waterline will freeze if the water doesn't...but whatever is exposed to air temps will be at risk.
If so, you should be able to just use all systems normally. If not, how do you plan to use the boat at all if most of the water outside your marina freezes over? Even if you just plan to spend weekends on it at the dock, you may not be able to get there in some weather conditions. That can spell major trouble for at least some of your systems if they haven't been winterized, especially anything above the waterline...'cuz nothing below waterline will freeze if the water doesn't...but whatever is exposed to air temps will be at risk.
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