The Layup ✔ List
Follow this fall layup checklist to get your boat ready for storage.
W
hen it comes to prepping your boat for winter storage,
the devil is in the details. Here’s how to keep your fall
layup from turning into an expensive spring commissioning.Check list? ✔Check!
Start your fall layup by creating a checklist of tasks in order
to eliminate mistakes. List all onboard systems and note what
has to be done for each (equipment and owner’s manuals are
a great place to start). Including step-by-step instructions
— as well as a list of tools and supplies needed to complete
each task — will make layup projects easier and quicker to
accomplish. Be sure to note part numbers and quantities,
and add to your vessel maintenance list for future reference.
Tear out this fall layup checklist and get to it!Exterior
❏ Wash the hull to remove dirt and grime.
❏ Detail the fiberglass gelcoat by removing stains and
oxidation, then apply a good quality wax.
❏ Clean and polish all metal hardware, then wax or coat
with a moisture displacing lubricant to prevent corrosion.
❏ Clean all canvas (Bimini tops, curtains, etc.). Remove
and store ashore where appropriate.
❏ Thoroughly scrub and clean all fish boxes and bait wells.Interior
❏ Clean the bilge and remove standing water, which can
promote mold and mildew.
❏ Remove all food items and bottles or cans containing
liquid (which can freeze and burst). Store ashore.
❏ Clean all upholstery, curtains and carpet. Remove bedding
and store ashore.
❏ Clean and spray all cabinets and storage lockers with a
mildew-preventative spray. Prop them open or leave ajar.Freshwater system
❏ Drain the entire freshwater system or add a solution of
antifreeze. Be sure to remove all water from the system,
however, to prevent freeze damage. Compressed air
works well to purge the lines.
❏ Drain the water heater (if so equipped) and purge in
conjunction with the above.
❏ Drain shower and other “gray water” sumps, or flush
with antifreeze.Engine
❏ Change the oil and filter. Run your engine up to operating
temperature beforehand, then run it five minutes or so
afterward to distribute clean oil throughout the engine.❏ Use fogging oil to protect the engine where appropriate.
❏ Check internal zincs and replace as needed.
❏ Check transmission fluid levels and change if recommended
by the manufacturer.
❏ Change primary and secondary fuel filters. Check and
clear bowls of water and sediment.
❏ Clean the engine exterior of oil and grime, then inspect
for corrosion, loose hardware, leaks and other such issues.
❏ Flush the cooling system. If you have an open system,
drain completely. For closed systems, drain the open,
raw water side completely or fill with antifreeze. Check
the strength and level of antifreeze in the reservoir.
❏ Inspect all hoses for looseness, leaks or signs of
deterioration. Replace if questionable.
❏ Clean all water intake strainers, then drain or add
antifreeze depending on the system they serve.
❏ Block exhaust outlets and air inlets to prevent unwanted
“guests” (rodents, insects, etc.) from moving aboard.Batteries
❏ Check for loose or corroded wiring and connections.
❏ Top off wet cell batteries with distilled water.
❏ Clean battery terminals and protect with a corrosion inhibitor.
❏ Unless they are being properly float charged on-board,
remove batteries and store them ashore in a climate-
controlled area, such as a garage.
❏ Place batteries on a float charge or bring to a full charge
every month.Steering systems
❏ Inspect the system thoroughly for stiffness of operation,
corrosion, loose or missing hardware, and unusual wear.
❏ For hydraulic systems, top off all fluid reservoirs and
inspect system hoses and seals for leaks.Fuel system
❏ The general rule is to top off all permanently mounted
fuel tanks prior to layup to avoid condensation issues.
Portable tanks should be drained and stored empty.
❏ Fill tanks 95 percent full (allowing 5 percent for
expansion) to reduce condensation and minimize
explosive vapors.
❏ When filling gasoline tanks, use the highest octane gas
available to help compensate for octane loss over the winter
months. The use of ethanol-free gas is also recommended.
❏ Add appropriate fuel stabilizers and biocides.
❏ Once you’ve topped off the tanks and treated your fuel,
run the engine for 15 to 30 minutes to disperse the
treated fuel throughout the entire system. ★ PHOTOS BY CAPT. FRANK LANIERby Capt. Frank LanierDON’T HESITATE TO RENOVATE
CAPT. FRANK LANIER
is an award-winning journalist,
boat maintenance guru and
owner of Capt F.K. Lanier &
Associates, Marine Surveyors
and Consultants
(CAPTFKLANIER.COM).Smart
Sequencing
In addition to listing
systems that need to
be winterized, your
checklist should show
a logical sequence of
tasks. For example, if
you need to wash or
clean items during the
winterization process,
save decommissioning
of your potable water
system until afterwards.Apply a good
quality wax
before storing
your boat.20 SEPTEMBER 2016 | LAKELANDBOATING.COMMaking a list of equipment
and supplies needed — and
gathering them prior to
starting — will make layup
tasks easier and quicker to
accomplish.Renovations_SEP16.indd 20 7/27/16 10:01 AM