Sailboat Storage And Preparation
Small animals need a place to live in winter and your boat is a perfect place for them. So make sure you get rid of any food items left in your boat at all. Even if packaged. Take everything consumable out of the boat. You will also need to take out any batteries you have on the boat, liquids, even toilet paper and paper towels. The next thing you want to do is to tape shut any entry points to your cabin. Rodents will get in anywhere they can and destroy wiring.
If you have a motor on your boat, you will need to prep that for storage as well. Drain all the oil and gasoline from it and cover it. You have to make sure you cover your motor. You can use something as simple as a trash bag taped down. No animals will be able to build a nest inside the motor this way.
You really should cover your entire boat, especially if its outside. If you cannot do this, pitch a tarpaulin over the entire boat. This will keep rain and snow off it, but won't stop dust and UV damage all that well.
Now taking your boat out of storage is next. You must check for any winter damage and dirt accumulation. Uncover the boat and give it a good once over. Look at the exterior to see if there is any cracking. It's important to see the part of the boat that will be under the water as well.
If you used a tarpaulin, you will need to remove the dirt that has built up over the winter months. All you need to do here is wash the boat down with fresh water and some soap. The interior is next. Since it's been closed up for a length period of time, let it breathe. Then get in there and wipe the surface down with a mild bleach. 12% bleach to water should be fine. If you have any wood trim, you may need to refinish and reseal that.
Since you have taken the battery out of the boat, you need to re install it and check that it is working fine. The same goes for the outboard motor if you have one. Change the oil, clean out the filters check all the plugs that need to be checked and lubricate them all for the coming sailing season. Now check the sails and rigging on your boat. This is crucial. I recommend once a year that you get an expert sail craftsmen to come check your sails for you. You need to check the lines and sails for any damage.
Next comes all the sail inventory and rigging. I keep the sails inside my house where they've been stored clean and dry. I have never experienced any problems provided they were put away clean, dry and folded properly. The lines have also been stored dry and only need to be inspected and remounted. Also check the mast for anything inside.
The only thing you need to check now is the trailer. Check the tire pressure and make sure all the attachments are in fine working order. Give it a hose down as well with fresh water.
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