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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/.
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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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Grand Slam GS-950BHC Electric Anchor & Stern Light - Black Anodized Aluminum
Not only can boaters adjust the position of their masthead anchor light with the simple push of a button, but the popular GS-950 is now available with a black hard coat anodized aluminum finish – providing enhanced protection from the elements in style. Ideal for powered vessels 39’ and under (12 meters and under), the GS-950BHC is certified for USCG-required 3 nautical miles. The GS-950BHC is a fully electric unit with hidden wires inside the hardtop. This mount easily installs to the surface of the hardtop and fits all top thicknesses. The GS-950BHC lights run on 12 volts and consist of four 3-watt LED Cree chips driven by two Mean Well drivers.
Features & Benefits:
4 Electric Masthead Anchor Lights
Black hard coat anodized aluminum
Machined / Anodized aluminum body with a Light-brushed finish
Certified for USCG-required 3-nm
Includes tube, light, and 6” lead of 20-gauge wire from the base
12-volt DC power supply for light function
Threaded shaft for consistent lift and descent
Brass bearings for smooth operation
Features breakaway pin for manual operation
Mounts to all hardtops
Reliable long-life LEDs
6-Watt Stern Light and 12-watt Anchor
Low-draw, 0.6 amps per light
Low-voltage 12-24VDC
Pairs with Backing Plate (BP-0850AEY), which is sold separately
Pairs with 6-degree Wedge Plate (WP-850-950), which is sold separately
Made in the USA
1-year limited warranty
Specifications:
Mount Base Diameter (inch): 4-1/4"
Max height of Mount (inch): 6-1/8"
Individual Weight (pounds): 3.5 lbs.
*Sold in a case of four
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1441.90 |
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Grand Slam 390BHC Outrigger Mount - Black Anodized Aluminum
This mount has all of the durable, dependable features of the popular GS-390, but with a black hard coat anodized aluminum finish – providing superior protection from the elements and style. The GS-390BHC has a robust gusset and heavy-duty arm to withstand the torque and pressure created when using longer outrigger poles. This base allows anglers to easily deploy an outrigger’s vertical lift and horizontal rotation from the boat deck in rough seas. Additionally, the GS-390BHC comes equipped with our secure pin-locking technology and pairs well with TACO’s Deluxe Aluminum and Carbon Fiber Tele-Outriggers.
Features & Benefits:
Two outrigger mounts
Boats between 25 ft. – 40 ft.
4" x 6" mounting base
Maximum thickness of T-top (inch): 2-5/8"
Patent number US7114283
Black hard coat anodized aluminum
Stronger gusset support and thicker arm for enhanced durability
The elevation crank handle provides lift from under the T-top
35º upward lift angle
Allows for horizontal rotation from under the T-top
Offset handle for better hand clearance
Cast stainless-steel Type-316L and machined aluminum construction
Strong locking head allows perfect positioning
Pairs with TACO Deluxe Aluminum or Carbon Fiber Tele-Outriggers
Tested and proven quality
Sleek appearance
3-year limited warranty
*Sold as a pair
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3159.90 |
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Round Accent Light RGB Black Anodized Aluminum Housing
Shadow-Caster®’s Round Accent Lighting “RAL” products are designed for lighting small areas around your vessel. Choose the correct product based on your mounting location and application. Shadow-Caster®’s Round Accent Lights support a variety of mounting configurations for anything from small hatches, cup holders, toe kick areas, walkway illumination, map lighting, baitwells, and cooler areas. All of Shadow-Caster’s RGB Accent Lights are designed to work with Shadow-Caster’s innovative lineup of lighting controllers.
Specifications:
Recommended Applications: Cup holders and other panel mount applications
IP Rating: IP65
Materials: Aluminum black anodized housing and polycarbonate window
Thread: 3/8- 32
Recommended Hole Diameter: 0.41”
Current Channel: 20mA, 60mA total
Voltage: 12V Only
Lead Wire Length: 18"/0.5M
Hardware Included: Panel nut and star washer
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22.20 |
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Black Anodized Aluminum Low-Profile Cable Seal
The DS-LP-16-BLK Low-Profile Cable Seal is engineered to effortlessly accommodate cables ranging from 2–8 mm (0.08"–0.35") and connectors up to Ø16mm (0.63"), ensuring a seamless and impact-resistant solution.
Premium Construction
Crafted with attention to detail, its marine-grade aluminum construction is not only aesthetically pleasing but also built to thrive in the outdoor environment. Aluminum has exceptional corrosion resistance and durability, making it the perfect choice for withstanding the elements and ensuring the installation remains intact even in the harshest conditions. The fine finish of the aluminum design adds a touch of sophistication to the installation, elevating both the form and function of the cable installation.
Low-Profile Design
The Scanstrut slimline design was purpose-built to reduce the overall mounting height of the cable seal by 73% in comparison to Scanstrut's DS16-P-BLK seal. This translates to a clean, flush, more refined look.
Watertight Installation
Achieve peace of mind with Scanstrut watertight installation. The tapered bung forms a secure seal, while every unit has a closed-cell base seal for 100% waterproof assurance. All models have undergone rigorous IP68 testing and approval to ensure they are outdoor-ready.
Effortless and Repeat Installations
Featuring captive nuts to simplify assembly and allow for reliable repeat installations. Each unit is supplied with pre-drilled and blank bungs, streamlining the setup process. Also, there's no need to remove the cable connector during installation, thanks to the convenient split-seal option.
Features:
The cable seal is black
IP68 Waterproof
Designed for 2-8mm cables (0.08"-0.35")
UV Resistant
Constructed from marine-grade aluminum
No messy sealant, ensuring a tidy finish
Simplified installation that saves you time and effort
Guaranteed 100% watertight seal
Perfect for solar panels, light bars, rooftop electronics, and more
Each cable seal is installed by using a hole saw keeping seal technology below the mounting surface
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31.69 |
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Black Anodized Aluminum Low-Profile Cable Seal for Cables 4-9mm
The DS-LP-21A-BLK Low-Profile Cable Seal is engineered to effortlessly accommodate cables ranging from 4–9 mm (0.15"–0.35") and connectors up to Ø21mm (0.82"), ensuring a seamless and impact-resistant solution.
Premium Construction
Crafted with attention to detail, its marine-grade aluminum construction is not only aesthetically pleasing but also built to thrive in the outdoor environment. Aluminum has exceptional corrosion resistance and durability, making it the perfect choice for withstanding the elements and ensuring the installation remains intact even in the harshest conditions. The fine finish of the aluminum design adds a touch of sophistication to the installation, elevating both the form and function of the cable installation.
Low-Profile Design
The Scanstrut slimline design was purpose-built to reduce the overall mounting height of the cable seal by 68% in comparison to Scanstrut's DS21A-P-BLK seal. This translates to a clean, flush, more refined look.
Watertight Installation
Achieve peace of mind with Scanstrut watertight installation. The tapered bung forms a secure seal, while every unit has a closed-cell base seal for 100% waterproof assurance. All models have undergone rigorous IP68 testing and approval to ensure they are outdoor-ready.
Effortless and Repeat Installations
Featuring captive nuts to simplify assembly and allow for reliable repeat installations. Each unit is supplied with pre-drilled and blank bungs, streamlining the setup process. Also, there's no need to remove the cable connector during installation, thanks to the convenient split-seal option.
Features:
The cable seal is black
IP68 Waterproof
Designed for 4–9mm cables (0.15"–0.35")
UV Resistant
Constructed from marine-grade aluminum
No messy sealant, ensuring a tidy finish
Simplified installation that saves you time and effort
Guaranteed 100% watertight seal
Perfect for solar panels, light bars, rooftop electronics, and more
Each cable seal can be pocketed inside a hole made from a hole saw
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37.09 |
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Black Anodized Aluminum Low-Profile Cable Seal for Cables 9-14mm & Connectors Up to Ø30mm
The DS-LP-30-BLK Low-Profile Cable Seal is engineered to effortlessly accommodate cables ranging from 9-14mm (0.35"–0.55") and connectors up to Ø30mm (1.18"), ensuring a seamless and impact-resistant solution.
Premium Construction
Crafted with attention to detail, its marine-grade aluminum construction is not only aesthetically pleasing but also built to thrive in the outdoor environment. Aluminum has exceptional corrosion resistance and durability, making it the perfect choice for withstanding the elements and ensuring the installation remains intact even in the harshest conditions. The fine finish of the aluminum design adds a touch of sophistication to the installation, elevating both the form and function of the cable installation.
Low-Profile Design
The Scanstrut slimline design was purpose-built to reduce the overall mounting height of the cable seal by 68% in comparison to Scanstrut's DS30-P-BLK seal. This translates to a clean, flush, more refined look.
Watertight Installation
Achieve peace of mind with Scanstrut watertight installation. The tapered bung forms a secure seal, while every unit has a closed-cell base seal for 100% waterproof assurance. All models have undergone rigorous IP68 testing and approval to ensure they are outdoor-ready.
Effortless and Repeat Installations
Featuring captive nuts to simplify assembly and allow for reliable repeat installations. Each unit is supplied with pre-drilled and blank bungs, streamlining the setup process. Also, there's no need to remove the cable connector during installation, thanks to the convenient split-seal option.
Features:
The cable seal is black
IP68 Waterproof
Designed for 9-14mm cables (0.35"–0.55")
UV Resistant
Constructed from marine-grade aluminum
No messy sealant, ensuring a tidy finish
Simplified installation that saves you time and effort
Guaranteed 100% watertight seal
Perfect for solar panels, light bars, rooftop electronics, and more
Each cable seal can be pocketed inside a hole made from a hole saw
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45.19 |
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Black Anodized Aluminum Low-Profile Multi Cable Seal for Cables Up to 15mm
The DS-LP-MULTI-BLK Low-Profile Cable Seal is engineered to effortlessly accommodate multiple cables up to Ø15mm (0.59"), ensuring a seamless and impact-resistant solution.
Premium Construction
Crafted with attention to detail, its marine-grade aluminum construction is not only aesthetically pleasing but also built to thrive in the outdoor environment. Aluminum has exceptional corrosion resistance and durability, making it the perfect choice for withstanding the elements and ensuring the installation remains intact even in the harshest conditions. The fine finish of the aluminum design adds a touch of sophistication to the installation, elevating both the form and function of the cable installation.
Low-Profile Design
The Scanstrut slimline design was purpose-built to reduce the overall mounting height of the cable seal by 71% in comparison to Scanstrut's DS-MULTI-P-BLK seal. This translates to a clean, flush, more refined look.
Watertight Installation
Achieve peace of mind with Scanstrut watertight installation. The tapered bung forms a secure seal, while every unit has a closed-cell base seal for 100% waterproof assurance. All models have undergone rigorous IP68 testing and approval to ensure they are outdoor-ready.
Effortless and Repeat Installations
Featuring captive nuts to simplify assembly and allow for reliable repeat installations. Each unit is supplied with pre-drilled and blank bungs, streamlining the setup process. Also, there's no need to remove the cable connector during installation, thanks to the convenient split-seal option.
Features:
The cable seal is black
IP68 Waterproof
Designed for multiple cables up to 15mm (0.59”)
UV Resistant
Constructed from marine-grade aluminum
No messy sealant, ensuring a tidy finish
Simplified installation that saves you time and effort
Guaranteed 100% watertight seal
Perfect for solar panels, light bars, rooftop electronics, and more
Each cable seal is installed by using a hole saw, keeping seal technology below the mounting surface
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75.60 |
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Black Anodized Aluminum Low-Profile Cable Seal for Cables 9-14mm & Connectors Up to Ø21mm
The DS-LP-21B-BLK Low-Profile Cable Seal is engineered to effortlessly accommodate cables ranging from 9–14 mm (0.3–0.5") and connectors up to Ø21mm (0.83"), ensuring a seamless and impact-resistant solution.
Premium Construction
Crafted with attention to detail, its marine-grade aluminum construction is not only aesthetically pleasing but also built to thrive in the outdoor environment. Aluminum has exceptional corrosion resistance and durability, making it the perfect choice for withstanding the elements and ensuring the installation remains intact even in the harshest conditions. The fine finish of the aluminum design adds a touch of sophistication to the installation, elevating both the form and function of the cable installation.
Low-Profile Design
The Scanstrut slimline design was purpose-built to reduce the overall mounting height of the cable seal by 68% in comparison to Scanstrut's DS21B-P-BLK seal. This translates to a clean, flush, more refined look.
Watertight Installation
Achieve peace of mind with Scanstrut watertight installation. The tapered bung forms a secure seal, while every unit has a closed-cell base seal for 100% waterproof assurance. All models have undergone rigorous IP68 testing and approval to ensure they are outdoor-ready.
Effortless and Repeat Installations
Featuring captive nuts to simplify assembly and allow for reliable repeat installations. Each unit is supplied with pre-drilled and blank bungs, streamlining the setup process. Also, there's no need to remove the cable connector during installation, thanks to the convenient split-seal option.
Features:
The cable seal is black
IP68 Waterproof
Designed for 9-14mm cables (0.35"–0.55")
UV Resistant
Constructed from marine-grade aluminium
No messy sealant, ensuring a tidy finish
Simplified installation that saves you time and effort
Guaranteed 100% watertight seal
Perfect for solar panels, light bars, rooftop electronics, and more
Each cable seal is installed by using a hole saw, keeping seal technology below the mounting surface
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37.09 |
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Backing Plates For Grand Slam Outriggers (pair)
Part #: BP-150BSY-320-1
Specifically made for additional support for Grand Slam Outriggers when mounting to hard tops and gunnels. Made of Anodized Aluminum.
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114.16 |
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109 Backing Plate with Gasket - Anodized Aluminum
Use with the Smooth Slide Rocket Launcher.
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32.35 |
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Trim Plate Anode - Aluminum Flat Mercury Alpha for Engines
Plate for Trim
Material: Aluminum
Pounds: 0.19 lbs
Kg: 0,080 kg
Height: 0.91"
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8.15 |
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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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Metals have different electrochemical potentials that initiate corrosion when they come in contact with one another. Any vessel that is operating in
fresh, brackish or salt water is at risk for corrosion. That's why
anodes are a crucial device aboard any boat - they attract the corrosion while
saving the metals on the boat.
Many of you are familiar with the use of zinc anodes, and perhaps even magnesium anodes, but in recent years aluminum anodes have also become available. Zinc are usually the cheapest options, and magnesium and aluminum anodes are usually much lighter. How do you know which type of anodes to use in which applications?
Traditionally, zinc anodes are used in saltwater. However, it has been shown that aluminum anodes are as effective or more effective in salt and brackish waters than any ther anode. In freshwater, magnesium is the superior anode for corrosion protection. So here is your super-short, handy guide:
Salt water: zinc or aluminum anodes
Brackish water: aluminum anodes
Fresh water: magnesium anodes
Stick with these rules, and you'll maximize the life of your vessel. And if you move a vessel from one type of environment to the next, make sure you change out the
anodes to avoid corrosion.
Keywords: Tecnoseal marine anodes, Zinc anodes, Aluminum anodes, Magnesium anodes, anodes, zincs, sacrificial metals, sacrificial zincs, Tecnoseal zincs, Tecnoseal aluminum anodes, Tecnoseal magnesium anodes
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FlexStep® Pro Package - Aluminum
The Adjustable & Removable Trailer Step - Make Boating Easier & More Convenient
Megaware FlexStep® Pro is an innovative multi-angle/extendable step system that attaches to your trailer frame, allowing easy access to virtually anywhere on your boat.
Megaware Engineering
The Megaware FlexStep® Pro makes boating more convenient than ever. This innovative multi-angle/extendable step system attaches to your trailer frame, allowing easy access to virtually anywhere on your boat. A quick, spring loaded pull handle and locking pin system adjusts the Megaware FlexStep® Pro to 16 positions for maximum reach.
Megaware FlexStep® Pro is manufactured from lightweight, high tensile 6063-T6 anodized aluminum ensuring the highest quality. Each step safely holds up to 300 lbs.
Using just four bolts, the Megaware FlexStep® Pro mounts to your trailer frame (2-3" deep by up to 4" wide*) in just minutes and easily disconnects with a single pin for safe storage during travel.
*Larger trailer frames may be accommodated by purchasing longer bolts available at any hardware store.
Features:
16 Adjustable Positions
Extends from 17 to 21 Inches
Removable for Safe Travel and Stowing
Fits Most Trailer Rails
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172.75 |
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