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.  

HOT FOOT™ Universal Original Foot Throttle for All Marine Engines Now compatible with all Mercury 175-300 Pro XS outboard motors The Original and ONLY real HOT FOOT™ Throttle Drive your boat safer by driving it like your car. This is the one and only HOT FOOT™ throttle - the original boat foot throttle that has been on the market for 30+ years. This throttle allows you to drive your boat like you do your car. You keep both hands on the wheel and control the throttle with your foot. The throttle returns to idle if you remove your foot. This throttle is a must-have for safe operation of high performance boats. Features: Drive your boat like you drive your car -- features make driving your boat fun and safe Number one throttle on the market for over 20 years Provides added safety and performance Improves throttle control for all outboard and inboards All cast aluminum and stainless steel hardware Lightweight and resistant to corrosion Stainless steel hardware and non-sticking teflon and nylon bearing surfaces for trouble free operation Nylon and teflon bushings on all critical pivot points Stainless steel spring returns engine to idle position when released Equipped with toe clip for additional safety in extreme operating conditions Uses standard control cables for easy hook-up (longer throttle cable not included) Mounts directly to floor of boat with four screws (not included) Patented Idle Stop for FICHT and Optimax Engines Optional Slide Mount (HFM-1-DP) available for comfort and multiple drivers 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.

HOT FOOT™ Pro - Top Load Foot Throttle for Chrysler Yamaha HOT FOOT™ Pro is the ultimate upgrade for the boater looking for safety and performance features that made Hot Foot™ the foot throttle boaters demand. HOT FOOT™ Pro sports a rugged aluminum finish with great color graphics on the pedal to accent any high performance boat. The top loading feature for the throttle cable* makes HOT FOOT™ Pro easier to install and gives more foot and leg room. Standard features include a patented idle stop for the Ficht and Optimax engines, stainless steel return spring, Teflon bushings on all critical pivot points and tow clip for added security. Features: Drive your boat like you drive your car Improved Safety & Throttle Control Attractive Full Color Pedal Graphics Topside Cable Connections Patented Idle Stop for FICHT & Optimax Stainless Steel Hardware with Teflon Bushings *Requires Longer Throttle Cable (Not Included) Optional Slide Mount (HFM-1-DP) available for comfort and multiple drivers. 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.

HOT FOOT™ Pro - Top Load Foot Throttle for OMC Mercury HOT FOOT™ Pro is the ultimate upgrade for the boater looking for safety and performance features that made Hot Foot™ the foot throttle boaters demand. HOT FOOT™ Pro sports a rugged aluminum finish with great color graphics on the pedal to accent any high performance boat. The top loading feature for the throttle cable* makes HOT FOOT™ Pro easier to install and gives more foot and leg room. Standard features include a patented idle stop for the Ficht and Optimax engines, stainless steel return spring, Teflon bushings on all critical pivot points and tow clip for added security. Features: Drive your boat like you drive your car Improved Safety & Throttle Control Attractive Full Color Pedal Graphics Topside Cable Connections Patented Idle Stop for FICHT & Optimax Stainless Steel Hardware with Teflon Bushings *Requires Longer Throttle Cable (Not Included) Optional Slide Mount (HFM-1-DP) available for comfort and multiple drivers. 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.

Hot Foot™ Throttle Replacement Spring for All Models Features: Replacement spring for all HOT FOOT™ Throttle models Stainless steel 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.

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.

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.

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.

It's that time again when Old Man Winter is shortening or ending our sailing season. Maybe you store your boat in a garage, barn, or at a marina. Now is the time to brush up on safe and useful storage tips.   1. When packing up, clean your electronics with a microfiber cloth by wiping down buttons and screens. A soft cloth is recommended with bottled water to clean screens that may have been stained by saltwater. Screen cleaners will not do the job. You may want to document the wiring so that installation is easy when you are ready to launch.   2. 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.   3. Remove all batteries. Charge your batteries, clean the terminals, and put a light coat of grease on the terminals. Store your batteries in a warm, dry place. Not in the boat.   4. Winterize the engine: Use fresh water to flush the engine, including the cooling system, to remove corrosion, dirt, salt, and residue Refill the cooling system with antifreeze. Warm up the engine to loosen impurities. Replace the oil and filters. Look for the residue of old oil. Remove and store all belts.   5. Fill the engine with gas and stabilizer. Run the engine for 15 minutes so that the mixture reaches the engine. If your engine uses E-10 fuel, take extra care in that it absorbs moisture ten times more than typical gasoline. (source: trailervalet.com).   6. A thorough cleaning of the boat before you store is a must, whether you have a small fishing boat or a six-cabin yacht. Soap and water will do a thorough job. Clean lockers, refrigerators, coolers, sinks, and cushions. Open all and allow to dry before you store. Next, clean the entire outside from bow to stern. End your cleaning with a coat of wax to the exterior and polish. Leaving a clean boat will make the launch process a lot easier when it's time.   7. Keeping mold and mildew at bay: Mildew comes from humidity. The best way to reduce humidity is ventilation. Although some skippers button up their boats to be airtight for the winter, there has to be some ventilation source. Use products that absorb moisture such as Damp Rid or purchase a dehumidifier such as Eva-Dry Mini Dehumidifiers. Find and seal any leaks and keep the boat clean. Cover the boat with either shrink wrap or a boat cover.   8. Shrinkwrap or a canvas boat cover? Ratings and opinions from the Hull Truth Boating Forum suggest that canvas covers are a better option for durability and cost. The canvas covers can be used season after season. With shrink wrap covers, there is the cost of installation every year. One source said if you are north of Boston, shrink wrapping is preferable because snow will slide right off the plastic wrap, versus weighing down the canvas. Contributors also felt the boat stays cleaner with shrink wrap.      Remove boat cushions, or not? The jury is out about removing boat cushions. Many skippers remove all cushions and bedding. Others spray the cushion bottoms with anti-mold spray. If keeping cabin cushions on the boat, stand them up on end to reduce the chance of mold. Most important is to keep as much moisture out of the cabin, as mentioned above.   Do everything you can to keep your boat critter-free during the winter. Lock all windows. Many small, rabid animals, especially raccoons, are looking for a warm place to nest for the winter. Raccoons are drawn by any food left in boats and will chew carpeting and cushions. Once inside a locked boat, they have no way to exit since they have most likely fallen from an open window. The messes they leave, including their waste, can be very unpleasant and a costly wake-up call in the spring. Keep mice out by plugging up scuppers and vents. Many skippers use Dryer Fresh Cab rodent repellent hoping the strong scent will repel rodents.   Circle Saturday, May 22, 2021, on your calendar. That 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 for a great boating season.   Fair Winds. 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 ©Copyright Cheryl Kuba, 3happycampers.com    

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

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

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

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

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

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