Topic: Boat use during cold weather

This topic has 3 replies, 4 voices, and was last updated 9 years, 6 months ago by Redngoo.

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December 5, 2016 at 4:27 am #424852

acf cat
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This one is for Bass Cat but i would like to here form everyone. I keep my boat on a lift on Bull shoals most of the time except for travel to local tournament. I fish allmost daily i would like to know if it is ok to keep rv antifreeze in the live well and bilge over the winter. Also is there a temp where it would be smart not to use the boat. I know cold makes things brittle is there a point that the gel coat or fiberglass would have issues.

December 5, 2016 at 5:40 am #424853

oldtimer57
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Cold doesnt bother Fiberglass unless you start immersing it in liquid nitrogen. But cold can cause engine problems if you dont warm it up reasonably. Many a merc has died when hammered while cold, going back to the early 90s and the 200 EFIs, continuing with many of the optis…Only problem I would worry about is “water in closed spaces”. IE the speedo can freeze since water runs from the pitot to the analog speedo (if you have digital, no worries). If you leave water in the live well which could have water trapped in the plumbing, pumps and valves, that could be an issue. Just make sure drains are open and boat is stored level or nose-up to get water out.2008 Pantera Classic2014 Mercury Pro XS 200

December 5, 2016 at 8:56 pm #424854

schodackbassman
Participant

I may be overly cautious (Im in upstate NY where it gets well below zero) but I blow out the live well lines, put RV anti freeze in those lines, and add some to live well. I add more in the ice chest drain, floor drain, and near the drain plug because you never know if water can get in someplace (boats stored outdoors) however unlikely. I just figure better safe then sorry. I have the motor professionally winterized by my BCB dealer plus change the fuel filter and water pump. Come spring she is ready to roll.

December 5, 2016 at 9:43 pm #424855

Redngoo
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These kind of post always cease to amaze me. Hearing peoples SUCCESS (different ways people do things) and it works for them. Its hard to deny SUCCESS!. Most often if a person has had SUCCESS doing something for a number of years you want convince them theres another way. Until I purchased my p2 I always stored my old Caracal outside under a quality cover. Wat I learned through my per say yearly rituals for winter. Cold and hot as not easy on a boat and motor. One thing I will add though is not to forget to check that FOOT OIL. Make sure there is no water in the foot. Water in a foot and freezing Temps definitely dont mix.2013 PANTERA 2MERCURY 200 PRO XSMINNKOTA 80LB FORTREX25 fury
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