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.  

3134 Downrigger Security System 3-Piece Locking Plate Without Padlocks Works in conjuction with your existing mounting knobs and padlocks of your choice. Works with all Scotty tilt-up Electric and Manual downriggers. Manufactured using rugged fiber reinforced engineering grade nylon molded over a robust stainless steel plate. *Padlocks not included. This system provides a degree of protection for your Scotty Downrigger and Swivel Mount. It is NOT designed to and will not stop a determined and equipped thief.

Pontoon Boat Cover Support System Extend the life of your pontoon boat cover by preventing water from pocketing. This easily installed system includes two adjustable support poles (bright dip anodized-snap ends). Poles adjust from 27" to 50" maximum height. 60ft of 1" polypropylene webbing, quick release adjuster buckles and four injection molded hooks to secure to decking. 

SECURITY SYSTEMS

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.

The new year is in full swing meaning the boat show season began the week of January 9th. The big three across the USA are the Annapolis, Chicago, and Miami boat shows, all touting the latest and greatest in gadgets, trends, and equipment. The shows draw water sports enthusiasts from fishing, kiteboarding, diving, canoeing, kayaking, rowing, surfing, wakeboarding, and more. Engines and engine technology, water safety, and equipment seminars are great learning experiences for any boater.   During the third week of January, Dusseldorf, Germany, hosts the world's largest boat and water sports show, with more than 250,000 visitors attending from 70 countries. The nine-day event showcases equipment and seminars from 2,000 exhibitors.   The International Boat Builders' Exhibition and Conference, IBEX, held in Tampa each October, is the largest marine equipment trade show in North America. This conference is not open to the public.   More knowledge about boating is the universal focus of all conferences and exhibitions, and safety and security are the front row focus now more than ever. Two of the hottest trends for boating, smart lighting and remote monitoring are at the core foundation of peace of mind when it comes to safety and security.   Smart Lighting   Most boaters already know about trendy lighting such as mood lighting, (because you are always in a mood). Underwater lighting (old school); and lit up drink holders, so you can always find your drink, have some new gadgetry as well.   For 2020, Smart Lighting is operated from a multi-function display, or better yet, your Smart Phone. You can choose the right color hue from a color pallet that creates hundreds of color combinations. You can program the on/off displays, so your boat is fully lit as you walk down the dock.  Keep a toggle light switch on board in the event that remote systems have a problem. Battery powered lanterns and flashlights should always be on board.   Remote Monitoring   Whether out at sea or sitting in your easy chair at home, boaters want to be connected. New cloud-based remote monitoring systems let you keep a watchful eye on your boat from a monitor at home or an app on your phone. How fantastic is it to check your boat battery levels from the comfort of your home, or see if the bilge pump is doing its job?   Setting up a boat security system in the form of a geofence and camera system would alert you if an unwanted visitor decides to take your boat for a ride. For skippers with added luxuries and amenities such as air-conditioning (my dad is rolling over in his grave on this one) or refrigeration, you can turn on both as you are driving to the harbor.   Soft Decking   The flooring with soft decking is a hot item this year for the added comfort of our feet, knees, and almost all body parts. Consider that while comfortable boating shoes should be the norm, lots of visitors to your boat will be barefoot, wearing flip-flops, sandals, or shoes never meant for a slippery deck. In my sailing experience, I had one woman show up in spiked high heels, and another brought her daughter along who was sporting an ankle plaster cast. Both were not invited back on board.   Good quality soft decking can add to the life of your boat, and help prevent added injury when there is a fall. Soft-touch foam is a more comfortable alternative to carpeting or nonskid material. It is softer on bare feet and still provides nonskid. The foam also stays cool and dries more quickly. Foammaker Non-Slip Boat Flooring Decking Pad and 6mm Thickness EVA Foam Faux Teak Marine Mat are just a few of the decking items causing a lot of buzz at the boat shows.   Whether you are setting sail for the first time, or you are an old salt who could circumnavigate while blindfolded, visit one of the many boat shows happening during the first quarter of 2020. Think about the added knowledge you'll gain for fun on the water, fair winds, and smooth sailing.   To obtain more information about the products and services mentioned in this article, please contact 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  

    Purchasing and owning a boat is a major investment. If you want to get the most from your investment, you must keep your boat in working order and in good condition.   Many new boat owners don’t know how to keep up with maintenance. Fortunately, it’s not impractical if you understand what boat maintenance entails and develop a system. Below, CLR Marine discusses some maintenance essentials to prolong your boat’s lifespan and avoid safety issues on the water!   Engines   No component is perhaps more critical than your boat’s engine. Engine failure is not only inconvenient but can also be dangerous when you’re out on the water. That’s why it’s important to prepare and repair your engine while you’re on land and have access to the necessary parts.   There are many steps to checking and maintaining a boat engine, but here are a few of the most crucial ones   ●Replace all engine filters and fluids each year. ●Inspect all hoses and clamps, replacing them as needed. ●Inspect the fuel system for leaks or damage, and replace any components that are not in tiptop shape.  ●Regularly evaluate the ventilation and exhaust systems. ●Regularly inspect the raw water pump, replacing the rubber impeller once a year.  ●Closely evaluate hoses, cables, and any other engine components.   The easiest way to keep up with the responsibilities is to use PDF files to track, update, and share maintenance schedules and duties. Use this tool to add pages to a PDF and easily modify the document as needed.   Electrical Components   Your boat’s electrical system is also challenging to maintain when you’re already on the water. Avoid leaving the radio, light, or other electrical parts on for extended periods when the engine is running; otherwise, you could face a dead battery.   Inspecting the battery and cable connection for corrosion and other damage is also a good idea. Replace the battery, cables, breakers, switches, fuses, and any other parts that need it. Further, you’ll want to ensure all the lights are functioning and that you have quality jumper cables for emergencies.   Hull, Propeller, and Motor   It’s critical to check the hull, propeller, and motor to ensure they are in top condition. Fight the temptation to procrastinate on replacing any necessary components until next season. The last thing you want to do is forget and face problems on the water.   The propellers should be properly secured, straight, and undamaged. Ensure the hull doesn’t have any distortions, cracks, or blisters, and give it a good deep cleaning. While you’re at it, evaluate your anchor and its rode to confirm they are up to the task.   Safety Gear   The importance of having a good set of jumper cables for emergencies. Several other items are necessary to protect you and others on the water. Make sure you have the following safety equipment and that they’re in working order:   ●Life jackets ●Fire extinguishers ●Carbon monoxide detector ●A basic first aid kit   ●An emergency signal kit   Cosmetics   Finally, you want to ensure your boat looks the part. This means cleaning it regularly and winterizing it for the cold months. Also, Make sure you have the right to use the right supplies and tactics to keep your vinyl upholstery sparkling and free of mildew stains.   Don’t allow your investment to go to waste. Keeping up with boat maintenance is essential for keeping your boat safe, functioning, and attractive. Coming up with a schedule and a checklist can make the difference between enjoying a long-lasting boat and paying for expensive repairs.     Would you like to read more helpful content or browse our wide selection of marine supplies? Visit CLRMarine.com today!   Written By Kelli Brewer

NT-Evolution Security Hard Wired Package GOST gives users the power to know the location of the boat and whether it's safe, secure, and ready to enjoy. Affordable, easy to install, and simple to use, GOST is the perfect solution for connecting boaters with the vessel. Features: Top-of-the-line, globally capable wired security, monitoring, and satellite tracking system designed specifically for harsh marine environments Real-time GPS location tracking GOST IDP 100x message size capacity  What's Included 110 AC Power Out | GNT IP68 110AC POWEROUT HW Waterproof, 110 AC monitoring of vessel shore power. Door/Hatch | GDC EXT WGHD Water-resistant door and hatch contact are used to secure vessel access points. Beam Sensor | GNT IBS 1 Is an infrared beam sensor designed to protect the exterior perimeter of the vessel. When the beam between the emitter and receiver is broken, the siren will alarm. High Water Sensor| GMM HWS Includes the bracket and the float switch that will be installed in the bilge of the vessel slightly below the vessel factory-installed high water sensor. Remote Keyfob | GMM KF2 Compact water-resistant design with a backlight for buttons and auditory feedback for arming or disarming a security system. The keyfob performs up to 6 actions per remote control, with a range of up to 150 feet. Water Resistant Strobe | GA STROBE WHITE Ultra small, self-contained semi-hemispheric white LED lights Surface or internal mount featuring 25 scan lock flash patterns, including synchronize feature for alternating or synchronous flashing. Mini Siren | GA-MINI-SIREN GOST Acoustics mini water-resistant, super-loud multi-tone marine siren, 125 db, 20 watt. Wired Sensors | Zone: Hatch | Z2 (NC) Beam-Sensor | Z3 (NC) 110 AC Power Out | Z4 (NC) High Water | Z5 (NO) ComBUS | Four-Wire This product may not be returned to the original point of purchase. Please contact the manufacturer directly with any issues or concerns.

NT-Evolution Security Hard Wired Package with OB Cowling Sensor GOST gives users the power to know the location of the boat and whether it's safe, secure, and ready to enjoy. Affordable, easy to install, and simple to use, GOST is the perfect solution for connecting boaters with the vessel. Features: Top-of-the-line, globally capable wired security, monitoring, and satellite tracking system designed specifically for harsh marine environments Real-time GPS location tracking GOST IDP 100x message size capacity What's Included DOOR / HATCH / ENG. COWLING | GDC - EXT - WGHD  Is the GOST standard door and hatch contact used inside the vessel? It is also used for engine cowlings.  Beam Sensor | GNT IBS 1 Is an infrared beam sensor designed to protect the exterior perimeter of the vessel. When the beam between the emitter and receiver is broken, the siren will alarm. High Water Sensor| GMM HWS Includes the bracket and the float switch that will be installed in the bilge of the vessel slightly below the vessel factory-installed high water sensor. Remote Keyfob | GMM KF2 Compact water-resistant design with a backlight for buttons and auditory feedback for arming or disarming a security system. The keyfob performs up to 6 actions per remote control, with a range of up to 150 feet. Water Resistant Strobe | GA STROBE WHITE Ultra small, self-contained semi-hemispheric white LED lights Surface or internal mount featuring 25 scan lock flash patterns, including synchronize feature for alternating or synchronous flashing. Mini Siren | GA-MINI-SIREN GOST Acoustics mini water-resistant, super-loud multi-tone marine siren, 125 db, 20 watt. Wired Sensors | Zone Hatch | Z2 (NC) Beam-Seansor | Z3 (NC) Engine Cowling | Z4 (NC) High Water | Z5 (NO) ComBUS | Four-Wire

Type RS - Unique RS Sailboat Drive EASY TO BUY - Everything you need supplied in one box - drive, 6ft steering cable and universal connection kit. EASY TO FIT - The simple to mount installation kit and optional integrated rudder feedback make for easy fitting. COMPACT - The remote drive unit has a tiny 0.25Ft2 footprint and can be mounted in the most convenient location on your boat, horizontally or vertically. RELIABLE & SAFE - Proven, tested design. The drive unit features a manual override without having to disengage the autopilot first. COMPATIBLE WITH YOUR PILOT - The Type R Remote Drive System is compatible with all major brand inboard autopilot systems. The Octopus Remote Sailboat Drive System makes it easy and economical to install an automatic pilot on light displacement Sail Boats steered with a mechanical system from a wheel or tiller. The system is designed for the modern mid range sail boat which has restricted space to mount a standard Linear drive. The drive is very responsive and has little feedback resistance when in 'Stand by' mode making it very suitable for racing yachts. Recommended for Yachts up to 38Ft (11.5m) with a maximum displacement of 15400 Ibs / 7000 Kg. The system includes a drive unit, a steering cable and a linear drive connection kit. The drive unit Can be mounted either horizontal or vertically in any convenient location. The steering cable length is determined by the relative position of the drive unit to the linear drive connection kit.

Single Paddle Trim System Single paddle kit including one paddle and the brackets to attach to a tilt or to a front mount helm. For complete control of engine trim and tilt, trim tabs, jackplates, PowerPole(R) and other on board systems, the innovative Paddle Trim system is the answer. Adaptable to existing front mount hydraulic and tilt helms, the Paddle Trim is ergonomically designed to allow the driver to make precise adjustments to the attitude of the boat or other systems without removing his hand from the steering wheel. Available both in single and dual versions (for either two equal or two different outputs) Both single or dual paddle can be positioned at various angles for the most confortable choice Equipped with one water proof “MOM.ON-OFF-MOM.ON switch ( 2 switches on dual version) Max load 5 Amp @ 12VDC For loads exceeding 5 Amp we recommend the use of the KTR - 42860S kit relay Uflex® trim tabs require the use of the KTR - 42860S kit relay Suitable for any kind of steering wheel dish. Max wheel dia. 400 mm (15.7”) Easy to install on the following Ultraflex® steering systems: - front and tilt mount hydraulic helms - tilt mount mechanical helms Wiring harness, labels and mounting hardware kit are included. The mounting plate, which differs between front and tilt mount. Installation, is ordered separately

Double Paddle Trim System Double paddle kit including two paddles and the brackets to attach it to a tilt or to a front mount helm. For complete control of engine trim and tilt, trim tabs, jackplates, PowerPole(R) and other on board systems, the innovative Paddle Trim system is the answer. Adaptable to existing front mount hydraulic and tilt helms, the Paddle Trim is ergonomically designed to allow the driver to make precise adjustments to the attitude of the boat or other systems without removing his hand from the steering wheel. Available both in single and dual versions (for either two equal or two different outputs) Both single or dual paddle can be positioned at various angles for the most confortable choice Equipped with one water proof “MOM.ON-OFF-MOM.ON switch ( 2 switches on dual version) Max load 5 Amp @ 12VDC For loads exceeding 5 Amp we recommend the use of the KTR - 42860S kit relay Uflex® trim tabs require the use of the KTR - 42860S kit relay Suitable for any kind of steering wheel dish. Max wheel dia. 400 mm (15.7”) Easy to install on the following Ultraflex® steering systems: - front and tilt mount hydraulic helms - tilt mount mechanical helms Wiring harness, labels and mounting hardware kit are included. The mounting plate, which differs between front and tilt mount. Installation, is ordered separately

Anchor Lift System This convenient system drops the anchor at the turn of a button and stores it in the anchor mount housing when not in use. Constructed of heavy gauge steel with durable powder coated finish and mounts on the bow or stern corners of most boats. Anchor secures within anchor mount housing. Mounts easily to bow or stern. Deploy anchor with the simple twist of a knob. Includes: Anchor Mount/Rope Guide Assembly  Anchor Rope Reel Assembly Rear Pulley, Rear Pulley Axel Other Features: Anchor deploys and lifts smoothly and securely.   Easy installation with detailed instructions. Multiple mounting solutions Anchor stows conveniently in anchor mount housing *Anchor, rope, and mounting hardware not included. 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.

Class B Compact Drive Unit The Class B Compact Drive Unit works with the GHP™ 12 marine autopilot system to control your sailboat's steering system. This device is designed for use with sailboats with up to 48,400 lbs of displacement. Compatible Devices: GHP™ 12 Autopilot System 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.

The U.S. House of Representatives on Thursday overwhelmingly approved the sweeping U.S. Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2007.   The bill would authorize $8.7 billion in spending for the Coast Guard. It also includes several narrow provisions that address security of LNG terminals, invasive species and stricter reporting requirements for cruise ships, among other issues.   One of the thorniest issues in the bill is the provision making the Coast Guard enforce security zones around LNG tankers and terminals. The White House had complained the requirement would siphon valuable resources from the Coast Guard. That prompted a GOP-backed amendment, which permits the federal agency to take into consideration state and local government resources when determining security plans for LNG sites.   White House spokesman Trey Brohn told reporters the administration is concerned about several key provisions in the House bill, but will work with members of Congress as the legislation moves forward.   The Senate is considering its own version of the bill.   In South Florida, industry leaders praised the bill's passage by the House because of a provision that provides a complete exemption for the service and repair segment of the recreational boating industry from the requirement for coverage under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act, as long as state workers' compensation coverage is in place.   The provision in the Coast Guard bill also provides specific relief to manufacturers of recreational boats 165 feet or under. The provision was drafted by two Florida legislators, Democratic representatives Ron Klein and Debbie Wasserman Schultz, who have consistently championed marine industry issues.   The issue has been a particularly hot topic in South Florida and the Marine Industries Association of South Florida has been lobbying for the exemption since 2001.   “This has been the No. 1 legislative priority for the recreational marine industry in South Florida for the past six years,” said Kristina Hebert, vice president of operations for Ward's Marine Electric and past president of the MIASF. “If enacted, this legislation will have a major positive economic impact on South Florida as well as the rest of the country's recreational marine industry.”   Organizations such as the Nature Conservancy also praise the bill's passage because of a provision concerning ballast water treatment. The legislation requires ships in U.S. waters to install ballast treatment systems to eradicate invasive species carried in ships' ballast water and to implement best management practices to address other ways in which invasive species can be spread from ships.   "While we are glad the House has passed this bill to shut the gates forever on aquatic nuisances," the bill needs to go further, said F. Ned Dikmen, chairman of the Great Lakes Boating Federation. “It is imperative that Congress provide an exemption for recreational boaters. Treating small craft like commercial ships isn't just misguided, it could ruin the $16 billion recreational boating industry."