trying to winterize

Question
Hey Ron, Me and my buddy are trying to winterize a 89 sea ray inboard-outboard and trying to locate plugs, and also could use a little guidance on what to put back in it and where?.  Any help would be greatly apreciatted

Answer
Hi Alex...Thanks for selecting the undersigned to respond to your question. By the way, I'm not a mechanic.

First of all, after the boat is hauled out, start the engine and let it run about 60 seconds until all the water in the journals has drained. Add appropriate antifreeze via the fresh water intake on the outdrive and make sure it gets completely circulated to the point you expel some. Next, drain the crank case oil and the lower unit oil. If either are milky, locate the source of the problem with assistance from a professional & reliable marine mechanic. Replace all oil. Then fog the engine via the carb with a recommended chemical, which lines the cylinder walls and protects the pistons from rusting.

Ensure the fuel tank is completely full. That way, you'll avoid the build-up of condensation during the fall and spring, when temperatures fluxuate substantially from day to night. Flush and drain the bilge so its clean. Disconnect your batteries. They can remain onboard if you like, or take them home and place in the basement on top of a piece of wood. Periodically throughout the winter, rechange with a trickle charger.

Either tarp or shrink wrap the boat, but allow for air flow or ventillation to take place, otherwise, you'll end up with a moldy smelling boat come spring.

Make sure the boat is properly blocked on land, and if on a trailer, check to see that the boat is centred on the rollers or bunks for adequate support along the keel and chines. If in doubt, consult a qualified/reliable source.

Safe Boating
Ron