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As the Fall months creep into our calendars, boat owners in cooler climates acknowledge, with sadness, that it’s time to put the boat away.
Outside Storage?
It’s a thought and an option but consider that you may be threatened by snow build up, tornadoes or hurricanes. The success of storing your boat outside depends on how well your boat is protected from the conditions outdoors.
Rinse/Flush
Rinsing the outside of your boat and trailer thoroughly with fresh water will remove excess salt. Pay particular attention to your trailer’s leaf springs, wheel hubs and brakes that are constantly submerged during launching and retrieval of your boat.
Flush your engine's cooling system with fresh water in line with your engine manufacturer’s salt removal recommendations. This will minimize corrosion and overheating issues come spring.
Drain your boat of all water – bilge, head, sink lines, water tanks, sea-cocks, and pipes. If you are in an area with extended periods of freezing, put antifreeze in the low parts if there is still some water present.
Salt
Watch out for salt. Buy a good salt remover to minimize corrosion.
Add fuel stabilizer to top off your fuel tanks. Here is one recommended by CLR Marine.
Diesel Formula Fuel Stabilizer & Performance Improver - 32oz *Case of 4*
STA-BIL Diesel Formula Fuel Stabilizer is a diesel additive that keeps fuel fresh for quick, easy starts and maximized for engine performance. Designed for use with all diesel engines, and all diesel fuels, Sta-Bil Fuel Stabilizer Diesel formula prevents sludge and sediment formation, cleans and lubricates fuel injectors to improve performance and helps remove water. It is safe to use and recommended for use at every fill up, with the 32 ounce bottle treating up to 320 gallons of fuel.
Batteries
Remove the batteries from your boat and store in your garage or basement.
Batteries should be connected to a battery charger that will give them a good charge and one that w automatically switches to a float/trickle charge to keep your batteries topped up. Match your charger to the type of battery you are charging. Using a charger manufactured for lead acid batteries to charge an AGM (absorbent glass mat) battery will cause damage to the battery.
If you choose to keep your batteries in the boat, connect a solar trickle charger. These chargers will keep your batteries topped off without the hassle of removing heavy batteries from your boat.
Cleaning
Clean the exterior with the proper fiber glass or wood cleaner needed for your boat. Bright work can be cleaned by removing the wood or cleaning it as it is - installed. Be careful to not get the wood cleaner onto the deck surfaces. The exterior should be dried with a chamois cloth. Vinyl seat cushions and backs should be cleaned with vinyl cleaner. Hard surfaces inside the vessel can be wiped with all purpose cleaners. End your cleaning with a coat of wax to the exterior and polish. Don’t forget the bottom paint.
Before you store, spend the time to give your boat a thorough cleaning. CLR Marine has many products by trusted brands such as Powerhouse, Davis Instruments, Jabsco, Shurhold, and Swobbit, to help winterize and clean. You will be grateful in the spring during launch time that your boat is already clean as the new boating season begins.
Cover Up
If you store outside in your yard, driveway, or a boat yard, a boat cover is a must to prevent damage from winter conditions. Leaving your boat in the water is not recommended. The boat is exposed to rough weather, and has a greater possibility of sinking if you aren’t monitoring it often.
https://www.clrmarine.com/462m4/boat-outfitting/winter-covers.html
and
https://www.clrmarine.com/462m4/winterizing.html
Circle May 21, 2022, on your calendar. The date is almost ten days before Memorial Day, next year when most harbors open for the season. Start your prep work, tune-ups, sanding, and painting to get out on the water and a great boating season. In the meantime, during the cold winter months, cozy up to the fire and read your boating manuals, new safety regulations and weather information.
Fair winds and smooth sailing.
To obtain more information about the products and services mentioned in this article, please get in touch with CLR Marine https://www.clrmarine.com/.
_________________________________________________________________________
Award-winning author Cheryl Kuba has been at the helm for more than 30 years sailing the Great Lakes, with side trips to the British Virgin Islands and St. Maarten.
She has served as past- Commodore of Great Lakes Fleet 21 -Chicago region. 3happycampers.com
©Copyright Cheryl Kuba, 3happycampers.com, 2021.
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Steering Trim Control Unit
Trim Switches on the Steering Wheel Improve Safety and Performance.
This steering trim control unit is molded of black plastic with raised white letters to not only enhance boat appearance but also provide the ultimate in control of any high performance boat. The steering trim control unit mounts easily to steering wheel spokes to place engine trim control at your finger tips for maximum safety and ease of operation. The weather proof, rubber booted, push button switches combined with a black urethane coiled cord provide a unit which will provide trim control without removing hands from steering wheel.
Features:
Puts trim switches on steering wheel for convenience and safety
Allows driver to keep both hands on the steering wheel
Mounts easily on steering wheel spokes
Weatherproof rubber booted switches
Rugged urethane coiled cord
Can be used for trim control or jack plate control
WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals which are known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to P65Warnings.ca.gov.
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108.10 |
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Transom Trim Control Push Button Trim Switch
Transom Trim Control Switch/Hydraulic Jack Plate Switch
Put a trim switch or hydraulic jack plate anywhere you want with this versatile switch. The Transom Trim Control Switch provides a weatherproof tilt control system at the stern area of the boat to facilitate placing motor support in position with one person. Switch can also be used for remote adjustment of hydraulic jack plates. The switch housing is molded black plastic with raised white letters and may be mounted on any flat surface, comes with 18" pigtail wire and installation instructions.
Features:
Trim switch for outboards or stern drives
Hydraulic jack plate switch
Puts Tilt & Trim Control Anywhere
Weatherproof Control Switches
UV stable molded housing
Can Also Operate Power Jack Plates
WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals which are known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to P65Warnings.ca.gov.
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49.16 |
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Boat Outfitting Equipment and Supplies
When it comes time for outfitting your boat, you can get all your boating supplies and boating accessories from us. You will never need to go anywhere else for your boat outfitting, because we have all the boat supplies you need. If you're looking for anchors/chain/rope, anodes, antifouling systems or boarding ladders, we have you covered. We can also offer you a selection of bottom paint and bow thrusters to choose from. You may also want cleaning supplies that offer deck/galley options so you can get your boat sparkling and ready to enjoy. We also have display mounts and docking accessories to complete your outfitting needs.
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Single Lever Top Mount Control w/Neutral Lock & Trim Switch - Black
In the twin engine installation a single switch will operate both trims. With a focus on efficiency these controls have been specifically designed to improve the functionality of control systems, making the boat easier to control. Single lever / dual action control to operate both with throttle and shift. Suitable for any type of boats with outboard, inboard or I/O power plants.
Features:
Enables easy and safe shifting by preventing accidental gear engagement unless engine is idling
Chrome plated high resistance ABS housing control with die cast chrome plated levers
Push in button disengages shift for warm-up
X12 neutral safety switch which prevents in-gear starting (optional)
Exceeds EN ISO 11547 standards when X12 safety switch is installed
For use with all Ultraflex control cables except C4:
C14 and MACH14 cables require no kit
for C2, C8 and MACHZero cables the connection kit K59 - 40144C is included
C5, C16 and MACH5 cables require K60 Kit - 40145E
C36 and MACH36 cables require K62 Kit - 40157J
C22 cable requires K61 Kit - 40146G
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515.33 |
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Single Lever Top Mount Control w/Neutral Lock & Trim Switch - Chrome
In the twin engine installation a single switch will operate both trims. With a focus on efficiency these controls have been specifically designed to improve the functionality of control systems, making the boat easier to control. Single lever / dual action control to operate both with throttle and shift. Suitable for any type of boats with outboard, inboard or I/O power plants.
Features:
Enables easy and safe shifting by preventing accidental gear engagement unless engine is idling
Chrome plated high resistance ABS housing control with die cast chrome plated levers
Push in button disengages shift for warm-up
X12 neutral safety switch which prevents in-gear starting (optional)
Exceeds EN ISO 11547 standards when X12 safety switch is installed
For use with all Ultraflex control cables except C4:
C14 and MACH14 cables require no kit
for C2, C8 and MACHZero cables the connection kit K59 - 40144C is included
C5, C16 and MACH5 cables require K60 Kit - 40145E
C36 and MACH36 cables require K62 Kit - 40157J
C22 cable requires K61 Kit - 40146G
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515.33 |
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Single Lever Top Mount Control w/Neutral Lock - No Trim Switch - Black
In the twin engine installation a single switch will operate both trims. With a focus on efficiency these controls have been specifically designed to improve the functionality of control systems, making the boat easier to control. Single lever / dual action control to operate both with throttle and shift. Suitable for any type of boats with outboard, inboard or I/O power plants.
Features:
Enables easy and safe shifting by preventing accidental gear engagement unless engine is idling
Chrome plated high resistance ABS housing control with die cast chrome plated levers
Push in button disengages shift for warm-up
X12 neutral safety switch which prevents in-gear starting (optional)
Exceeds EN ISO 11547 standards when X12 safety switch is installed
For use with all Ultraflex control cables except C4:
C14 and MACH14 cables require no kit
for C2, C8 and MACHZero cables the connection kit K59 - 40144C is included
C5, C16 and MACH5 cables require K60 Kit - 40145E
C36 and MACH36 cables require K62 Kit - 40157J
C22 cable requires K61 Kit - 40146G
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449.68 |
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Single Lever Top Mount Control w/Neutral Lock - No Trim Switch - Chrome
In the twin engine installation a single switch will operate both trims. With a focus on efficiency these controls have been specifically designed to improve the functionality of control systems, making the boat easier to control. Single lever / dual action control to operate both with throttle and shift. Suitable for any type of boats with outboard, inboard or I/O power plants.
Features:
Enables easy and safe shifting by preventing accidental gear engagement unless engine is idling
Chrome plated high resistance ABS housing control with die cast chrome plated levers
Push in button disengages shift for warm-up
X12 neutral safety switch which prevents in-gear starting (optional)
Exceeds EN ISO 11547 standards when X12 safety switch is installed
For use with all Ultraflex control cables except C4:
C14 and MACH14 cables require no kit
for C2, C8 and MACHZero cables the connection kit K59 - 40144C is included
C5, C16 and MACH5 cables require K60 Kit - 40145E
C36 and MACH36 cables require K62 Kit - 40157J
C22 cable requires K61 Kit - 40146G
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442.22 |
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Twin Lever Top Mount Control w/Neutral Lock & Trim Switch - Black
In the twin engine installation a single switch will operate both trims. With a focus on efficiency these controls have been specifically designed to improve the functionality of control systems, making the boat easier to control. Single lever / dual action control to operate both with throttle and shift. Suitable for any type of boats with outboard, inboard or I/O power plants.
Features:
Enables easy and safe shifting by preventing accidental gear engagement unless engine is idling
Chrome plated high resistance ABS housing control with die cast chrome plated levers
Push in button disengages shift for warm-up
X12 neutral safety switch which prevents in-gear starting (optional)
Exceeds EN ISO 11547 standards when X12 safety switch is installed
For use with all Ultraflex control cables except C4:
C14 and MACH14 cables require no kit
for C2, C8 and MACHZero cables the connection kit K59 - 40144C is included
C5, C16 and MACH5 cables require K60 Kit - 40145E
C36 and MACH36 cables require K62 Kit - 40157J
C22 cable requires K61 Kit - 40146G
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899.04 |
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Twin Lever Top Mount Control w/Neutral Lock & Trim Switch - Chrome
In the twin engine installation a single switch will operate both trims. With a focus on efficiency these controls have been specifically designed to improve the functionality of control systems, making the boat easier to control. Single lever / dual action control to operate both with throttle and shift. Suitable for any type of boats with outboard, inboard or I/O power plants.
Features:
Enables easy and safe shifting by preventing accidental gear engagement unless engine is idling
Chrome plated high resistance ABS housing control with die cast chrome plated levers
Push in button disengages shift for warm-up
X12 neutral safety switch which prevents in-gear starting (optional)
Exceeds EN ISO 11547 standards when X12 safety switch is installed
For use with all Ultraflex control cables except C4:
C14 and MACH14 cables require no kit
for C2, C8 and MACHZero cables the connection kit K59 - 40144C is included
C5, C16 and MACH5 cables require K60 Kit - 40145E
C36 and MACH36 cables require K62 Kit - 40157J
C22 cable requires K61 Kit - 40146G
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903.79 |
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Twin Lever Top Mount Control w/Neutral Lock - No Trim Switch - Black
In the twin engine installation a single switch will operate both trims. With a focus on efficiency these controls have been specifically designed to improve the functionality of control systems, making the boat easier to control. Single lever / dual action control to operate both with throttle and shift. Suitable for any type of boats with outboard, inboard or I/O power plants.
Features:
Enables easy and safe shifting by preventing accidental gear engagement unless engine is idling
Chrome plated high resistance ABS housing control with die cast chrome plated levers
Push in button disengages shift for warm-up
X12 neutral safety switch which prevents in-gear starting (optional)
Exceeds EN ISO 11547 standards when X12 safety switch is installed
For use with all Ultraflex control cables except C4:
C14 and MACH14 cables require no kit
for C2, C8 and MACHZero cables the connection kit K59 - 40144C is included
C5, C16 and MACH5 cables require K60 Kit - 40145E
C36 and MACH36 cables require K62 Kit - 40157J
C22 cable requires K61 Kit - 40146G
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771.35 |
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Twin Lever Top Mount Control w/Neutral Lock - No Trim Switch - Chrome
In the twin engine installation a single switch will operate both trims. With a focus on efficiency these controls have been specifically designed to improve the functionality of control systems, making the boat easier to control. Single lever / dual action control to operate both with throttle and shift. Suitable for any type of boats with outboard, inboard or I/O power plants.
Features:
Enables easy and safe shifting by preventing accidental gear engagement unless engine is idling
Chrome plated high resistance ABS housing control with die cast chrome plated levers
Push in button disengages shift for warm-up
X12 neutral safety switch which prevents in-gear starting (optional)
Exceeds EN ISO 11547 standards when X12 safety switch is installed
For use with all Ultraflex control cables except C4:
C14 and MACH14 cables require no kit
for C2, C8 and MACHZero cables the connection kit K59 - 40144C is included
C5, C16 and MACH5 cables require K60 Kit - 40145E
C36 and MACH36 cables require K62 Kit - 40157J
C22 cable requires K61 Kit - 40146G
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715.24 |
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SP-80 - Control Head Only
For boaters who know where they're going. SP-80 takes you where you want to be--effortlessly. Its smart, precise piloting gives you the extra hand on deck you've always needed. And the operation is a snap: Simply set the course and the SP-80 takes the controls, piloting you to your destination with ease and precision. So bait the lines or simply enjoy the sunset. With the SI-TEX SP-80 Autopilot you're right on course. Hands free, and ready to go.
Features:
Designed for Outboard, Inboard, and Sterndrive vessels with Hydraulic or Mechanical steering systems.
Automatically pilots to your next waypoint using built-in NMEA 0183 Loran/GPS interface.
Waterproof control head easily installs flush or surface mounted.
System can be expanded by adding fully functional second-station option with the SI-TEX SP-70 Handheld Control Unit.
Bold, backlit display with ten levels of brightness for clear reading in any light.
Accurate digital displays of rudder angle and operating mode in use, constantly giving you up-to-the minute operating status.
Automatic Sea State and Trim controls and 10 selectable levels of rudder sensitivity with high and low speed settings for smooth, precise steering.
Rudder feedback verifies autopilot's commands.
Ghost Rudder backup allows autopilot to use memory of rudder movements to calculate new movements in event of rudder feedback failure.
Heading Output feature allows you to stabilize radar display.
Built-in diagnostics and self tests, plus visual and audible alarms.
Power Steering mode offers convenient push-button steering. Stand-By mode for manual steering situations.
Optional analog Rudder Angle Indicator for easy, at-a-glance reading of exact rudder position.
Works with solenoid valves also.
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588.00 |
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R 6.5" Marine Audio Package with RGB Remote & Controller - Anthracite Grill
When it’s time to #GetLoud and you’re starting from scratch, the Roswell R 6.5" Marine Audio Package comes ready to rock with every piece of the puzzle.
Trade trips to the store for cruises to the sandbar with this all-in-one audio solution, including Roswell's R 6.5" in boat speakers, RGB controller, R1 650.4 amp, Cybox Bluetooth Controller, Dual Zone Volume Control, and every accessory boaters need to get on the water.
Features:
Anthracite grill color
Includes:
(2 pair) R 6.5" Marine Speakers
(2) 2M 2 Channel RCA cable
(1) R1 650.4 Amplifier
(1) Dual Zone Volume Control
(1) Cybox Bluetooth Controller
(1) RGB Remote & Controller
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1078.13 |
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Atlas Blinker Trim System - Dual Switch
Trim Control for Hydraulic Helms.
Features:
Operates Engine Trim and/or Jack Plates
Fits Hydraulic, Cable, and Tilt Steering
Dual Switch
Easy Installation
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124.60 |
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