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.  

SilverSteer™ 2.0 High-Performance Front Mount Outboard Hydraulic Steering System - 1500PSI FM V2 Specifically designed for high performance and high torque applications, the SilverSteer features a 1,500 psi helm and keyed bullhorns on the cylinder for maximum durability and minimal lost motion. Whether a bass boat, flat boat or tournament style offshore fishing boat, the SilverSteer™ will deliver smooth, responsive and precise steering. Adjustable boss style fittings allow precise hose routing without the risk of breaking the fittings by overtightening or leaking fittings from loosening during installation, a common problem on competing cylinders. Features: Horsepower: Single engine, 350hp, dual engine, 600hp Helm: 7.3 cu in/120cc Hose: 1,500psi Turns Lock-to-Lock: 4.3 Included Equipment: UP25 F-SVS front mount helm pump, UC128/2-SVS front mount outboard cylinder, hydraulic oil (two qts.), Hose kits sold separately Steering Wheel: Sold separately Steering Wheel Shaft: 3/4" tapered Warranty: Two years

Baystar Hydraulic Steering System for single-outboard powered boats rated up to 150 HP, including runabouts and inflatables, and outboard engines with ABYC standard engine tilt tubes. For single station, single engine use only. BayStar is not intended for high speed, high performance type boats, such as bass boats. Low friction hydraulic steering system, 5 turns lock-to-lock. Balanced cylinder with compact design that fits most splashwells and provides full engine movement. Compact helm with small footprint, requires only 3" dash hole (standard or tilt).Packaged complete with helm, cylinder, fittings, tubing, oil, fill kit and detailed instructions. Standard 3/4" tapered steering shaft. Meets ABYC standards and NMMA certification requirements. Baystar Steering System is not for use on pontoon boats.

SilverSteer™ Front Mount Outboard Hydraulic Steering System w/ UC130-SVS-1 Cylinder Specifically designed for high performance and high torque applications, the SilverSteer features a 1,500 psi helm and keyed bullhorns on the cylinder for maximum durability and minimal lost motion. Whether a bass boat, flats boat or tournament-style offshore fishing boat, the SilverSteer™ will deliver smooth, responsive, and precise steering. Adjustable boss style fittings allow precise hose routing without the risk of breaking the fittings by over-tightening or leaking fittings from loosening during installation, a common problem on competing cylinders. UC130-SVS-1 Cylinder is ideal for applications with limited space or potential pinch-points between the cylinder and transom (i.e., when tilting the motor all the way up or motors mounted on a jack plate).  The end-mounted fittings keep the hydraulic hoses free and clear. SilverSteer™ Package Kit Contains: UC130-SVS-1 Cylinder (fittings face out from the ends of the cylinder)

SilverSteer™ Universal Front Mount Outboard Hydraulic Tilt Steering System - 1500PSI V1 Specifically designed for high performance and high torque applications, the SilverSteer features a 1,500 psi helm and keyed bullhorns on the cylinder for maximum durability and minimal lost motion. Whether a bass boat, flat boat or tournament style offshore fishing boat, the SilverSteer™ will deliver smooth, responsive and precise steering. Adjustable boss style fittings allow precise hose routing without the risk of breaking the fittings by over-tightening or leaking fittings from loosening during installation, a common problem on competing cylinders. SilverSteer™ Package Kit Contains: UC130/1-SVS Cylinder UP25F-SVS Helm 2 Quarts of Hydraulic Oil

SilverSteer™ Universal Front Mount Outboard Hydraulic Steering System w/ UC128-SVS-1 Cylinder Specifically designed for high performance and high torque applications, the SilverSteer features a 1,500 psi helm and keyed bullhorns on the cylinder for maximum durability and minimal lost motion. Whether a bass boat, flat boat or tournament style offshore fishing boat, the SilverSteer™ will deliver smooth, responsive and precise steering. Adjustable boss style fittings allow precise hose routing without the risk of breaking the fittings by over-tightening or leaking fittings from loosening during installation, a common problem on competing cylinders. SilverSteer™ Package Kit Contains: UC128-SVS-1 Cylinder (fittings are on the face of the cylinder, between the cylinder and boat's transom)

Steer Stop Outboard Hydraulic Steering Lock Set - 4" T-H Marine developed the first steering stop available for outboard motors and now we've revised that design so it stands apart from imitation and performs better than any other on the market.  With our 4" Steer Stop Outboard Hydraulic Steering Lock in place, boaters can center their outboard motor equipped with hydraulic steering and keep it from wandering when trailering. Similar to the original Steer Stop, units clip onto hydraulic steering rams on either side of outboard to keep engine straight and prevent damage to motor supports. The cord then keeps units together when stowed and aids removal. Additionally, with the new grip built into the design, it is easier than ever to install and remove the Steer Stop Outboard Hydraulic Steering Lock, saving you effort and wear and tear on your hands. Features: Must-know information about the 4" Steer Stop Outboard Hydraulic Steering Lock: Locks hydraulic steering when trailering Fits most steering cylinder rods on outboard engines Snaps over outboards hydraulic steering cylinder rods Helps keep engine centered during transport Protects steering system, outboard, and motor supports Includes cord to connect units for storage and to aid in removal Grip makes it even simpler and easier to put on and take off 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.

SilverSteer™ Universal Front Mount Outboard Hydraulic Tilt Steering System - 1500PSI V2 Specifically designed for high performance and high torque applications, the SilverSteer features a 1,500 psi helm and keyed bullhorns on the cylinder for maximum durability and minimal lost motion. Whether a bass boat, flat boat or tournament style offshore fishing boat, the SilverSteer™ will deliver smooth, responsive and precise steering. Adjustable boss style fittings allow precise hose routing without the risk of breaking the fittings by overtightening or leaking fittings from loosening during installation, a common problem on competing cylinders. SilverSteer™ Package Kit Contains: UC130/2-SVS cylinder

SilverSteer™ Outboard Hydraulic Tilt Steering System - UC130 V1 Specifically designed for high performance and high torque applications, the SilverSteer features a 1,500 psi helm and keyed bullhorns on the cylinder for maximum durability and minimal lost motion. Whether a bass boat, flat boat or tournament style offshore fishing boat, the SilverSteer™ will deliver smooth, responsive and precise steering. Adjustable boss style fittings allow precise hose routing without the risk of breaking the fittings by overtightening or leaking fittings from loosening during installation, a common problem on competing cylinders.

SilverSteer™ Front Mount Outboard Hydraulic Steering System - UC130 V2 Specifically designed for high performance and high torque applications, the SilverSteer features a 1,500 psi helm and keyed bullhorns on the cylinder for maximum durability and minimal lost motion. Whether a bass boat, flat boat or tournament style offshore fishing boat, the SilverSteer™ will deliver smooth, responsive and precise steering. Adjustable boss style fittings allow precise hose routing without the risk of breaking the fittings by over tightening or leaking fittings from loosening during installation, a common problem on competing cylinders. Specifications: Volume: 130 cc - 7.93 cu.in Output force: 492 kg - 1085 lbs Inside diameter: 36 nm - 1.43" Stroke: 185 nm - 7.28" 3/8" fittings: For high pressure flex hose Bleed fittings: DN5 quick connect Kit Includes: UC130-SVS 2 UP25F-SVS 2x Oil 15

SilverSteer™ Outboard Hydraulic Tilt Steering System - UC130 V2 Specifically designed for high performance and high torque applications, the SilverSteer features a 1,500 psi helm and keyed bullhorns on the cylinder for maximum durability and minimal lost motion. Whether a bass boat, flat boat or tournament style offshore fishing boat, the SilverSteer™ will deliver smooth, responsive and precise steering. Adjustable boss style fittings allow precise hose routing without the risk of breaking the fittings by overtightening or leaking fittings from loosening during installation, a common problem on competing cylinders.

GoTech™ 1.0 Universal Front Mount Outboard Hydraulic Steering System For outboard single engine up to 115hp. Kit Contains: UP18 - Intermediate helm pump UC81-OBF - Front mount outboard cylinder OL 150 - Hydraulic oil - 2 litres KIT OB-GT-60 - Hose kit dia, 1/4" 6M(19.7") length

Autopilot Hydraulic Steering Installation Kit w/Hoses & Fittings Hydraulic Hose & Fittings Kit Includes: (2) - 30" Flexible High Pressure Hyd. Hose's (1) - 30" Flexible Low Pressure Hyd. Hose O.R.B Helm fitting kit NPT Helm fitting kit

Atlas Micro Jacker Small Outboard Hydraulic Jack - 4" SMALLEST & LIGHTEST HYDRAULIC JACK ON THE MARKET For Small Outboards - Max Weight 425 lbs / Max Horsepower 115 HP Great For Shallow Water Boats – Gheenoes     River Runners – Jon Boats - Skiffs Get Out of Trouble Fast – Lifts in 8 Seconds Lightweight – Only 23 Pounds Fish “Skinny Water” With Confidence Self Contained Hydraulics Maximum outboard dry weight: 425 pounds Maximum outboard horsepower: 115 HP* Only Four (4) Inch Setback Clamp-On Motor Adapter Available (optional) Small Footprint – Only 14-5/8” Wide and 11-1/2” High Clamp-On Motor Adapter (part # AHJM-CMA-DP) allows you to mount smaller engines with clamp-on brackets to the ATLAS Micro Jacker, since they do not mount with bolts on the standard BIA engine hole pattern. Adjustment Specifications: With the Micro Jacker in place, you will have about 8.5” to work with in height. This includes 1.5” of adjustment at the transom, another 1.0” on the motor side, 1.0" of adjustment with the motor, and 5" of hydraulic lift with the Micro Jacker itself. 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.

Type R for Cable Steered Boats with Auxiliary Outboards Features: Drive connects to kicker Electronic clutch disengages for manual steering Rotary drive system Safety override technology Current 1.25A typical, 5A peak 6' steering cable for connecting drive unit included Requires outboard link arm assembly Wireless control module plus handheld pendant - steering in the palm of your hand Steer, fish and cruise from anywhere on the boat Easy DIY installation - no need for professional installer 2 Year limited warranty - purchase with confidence Specifications: Wireless Controller & Receiver Meets FCC standards Additional Handheld and receiver can be paired in field Pendant and receiver auto-off in 30 minutes if no usage Over 1 Million control codes provide enhanced security Handheld Pendant Water proof Supplied with 2xAAA batteries Includes lanyard Wireless Receiver & Motor Controller Waterproof Motor drive capability up to 25A Overload protection Reverse polarity protection 12V DC nominal (9V min - 16V max operating range) Offers pass-through capability for Autopilot motor and clutch control circuits