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What Equipment Will I Need for Winterizing my Boat?

Where can I buy the professional type boat winterization kit/tank that many of the boating service centers use? This along with other common Boat Winterization questions will be covered in this PPT Technical Article.

The following parts list will allow you to put together a winterization system together for your own use. Otherwise you can purchase one of the Manual Systems (read more). Along with the flush hardware you’ll need a standard set of wrenches and screw drivers, muffs (motor flusher), along with a few supplies such as Engine Rust Inhibitor and Fuel System Stablizer.

PARTS LIST – PPT Winterization Tank System (Used in Tech Videos)

• Tank
• 750 GPH Pump
• Toggle Switch
• Battery Clips
• Fuse Holder
• 5amp ATO/ATC Fuse
• Electrical Butt Connectors
• (2) 16-14 gauge wires – Length is determined by if you’re using the battery in the boat [longer] or an auxiliary battery on the ground [shorter] – Obtain Locally
• Auxiliary battery or use battery in the boat – Obtain Locally

What’s The Process?

The following list is the basic checklist we recommend following when performing either sterndrive, inboard, 2-cycle or 4-cycle boat engine winterizations. Although many of the details within each step differ for each marine engine manufacturer (example Mercruiser, Volvo Penta, Crusader, Marine Power, etc) or outboard motor manufacturer (example Mercury Marine, Yamaha, Suzuki, Evinrude, Honda) the basic steps and results of what needs to be completed remain the same.  For example draining the water from a 1985 MerCruiser 4.3L engine requires different steps vs draining the water from the cooling system of a 2005 model 4.3L MPI engine equipped with one of Mercruiser’s manual or automatic drain systems. The fact that the inboard engine needs to be drained is the same but the step by step process differs. It is very IMPORTANT to review your owners manual to make certain you don’t overlook anything in particular when working through these specific steps. (Note: By using the PPT website and searching either the Online MerCuiser Parts Catalog or Mercury Outboard Parts Diagrams you can quickly locate your inboard, outboard engine or sterndrive model and then order  the service manual or owners manual by selecting the “Service and Support Material” Assembly Diagram.)

IMPORTANT: The steps listed below are best performed in the order specified below.

STERNDRIVE & INBOARD MODELS

• Add stabilizer to fuel tank (See manufacturer suggestions regarding how many ounces/gallon)
• Start engine and allow it to warm up
• Drain gear lube
• Drain engine oil
• Drain water
• Block X 2
• Manifold X 2
• “J” hose
• Oil cooler
• Fuel cooler
• Transmission cooler
• Sea water pump (belt driven)
• Drain on transmission
• Heater
• Drain on-board water tanks (ballasts, sinks, showers ext…) and fill with propylene glycol
• Change oil filter (date and initial)
• Change fuel filter (date and initial)
• Fill engine with oil
• Fill lower unit with gear lube
• Grease gimbal bearing
• Start and run engine on 100% Propylene Glycol
• Fog engine (Carb Engines Only)
• Tag engine belt (orange)
• Zip tie key to steering wheel
• Remove bilge plug from back of boat
• Trim up drive
• Turn off battery switch or remove negative battery cable
• Tag bow eye (owners name, date, and initial)

2 CYCLE OUTBOARD MOTORS

• Add fuel treatment and stabilizer to fuel tank(s) as required per gallon.
• Change water separating fuel filter, if equipped or empty sediment/water bowl if equipped.
• Run engine up to operating temperature, circulating stabilized fuel through fuel system and fog engine with a rust
• ventative solution to protect internal engine parts.
• Drain and re-fill lower unit gear lube (insures elimination of water in the lower unit which could freeze and burst).
• Grease engine fittings.

4 CYCLE OUTBOARD MOTORS

• Add fuel treatment and stabilizer to fuel tank(s) as required per gallon.
• Change water separating fuel filter, if equipped or empty sediment/water bowl if equipped.
• Change engine oil and filter.
• Run engine up to operating temperature, circulating stabilized fuel through fuel system and fog engine with a rust preventative solution to protect internal engine parts.
• Drain and re-fill lower unit gear lube (insures elimination of water in the lower unit which could freeze and burst).
• Grease engine fittings.

Need More Help? Check Out These Popular Winterization Videos?

*For over 14 years Serious Boaters have been going to PPT’s Youtube Channel for Do-It-Yourself Boating Repair Videos – Over 1 Million Views and Counting!

Yamaha Outboard Part Numbers	Yamaha utilizes a specific format system with their Outboard Parts. This article covers the proper formatting and part identification used with Yamaha Outboard Part Numbers for both 2 stroke & 4 stroke outboard models.
Yamaha Outboard Part’s Catalog Shopping	Yamaha Outboard Motor’s Parts Catalog & Diagrams with Schematics for easy online shopping for both 2 stroke & 4 stroke outboard motor models.
Yamaha Outboard Serial Number and Model Identification	Yamaha Outboard Motors Serial Numbers & Model Identification chart for both 2 stroke and 4 stroke outboard motor models.
2017 Yamaha Outboard Accessories Catalog	Yamaha Outboard Accessories including Manintenance Items, Oils, Propellers, Water Pump Impellers and Rigging Components.
Yamaha Electrical Harness Plug Diagram	Yamaha Outboard Motor 10 Pin Electrical Harness Plug Pin Location Diagram.
Yamaha 2 Stroke Outboard Lubrication Chart	Yamaha 2 Stroke Outboard Motors lubrication capacities and specifications for various outboard motor models.
Yamaha 4 Stroke Outboard Lubrication Chart	Yamaha 4 Stroke Outboard Motors lubrication capacities and specifications for various outboard motor models.
Yamaha Outboard Maintenance Charts & Capacities	Yamaha 2 & 4 Stroke Outboard Motors Maintenance Charts and Capacity Specifications.

Yamaha Outboards Motors Model Information

Our Yamaha Outboard Parts Technical Product Specifications contains a full library of Yamaha Marine Products technical specifications and information. Ranging from current Yamaha Outboard Motor information to the older Yamaha 2 stroke marine outboards. The Yamaha Outboard 4 stroke outboards out technical library is a great Marine Product technical resource not only for the average boater but for to the certified mechanic alike.

Performance Product Technologies offers more than 25 years of technical experience and knowledge in the boating and Marine Parts industry. PPT is the most reliable source for Online Shoppers looking for insight and advice on the best parts and options for their Boat. Whether you need Outboard or Sterndrive Technical Information Yamaha, Mercury or Suzuki marine products you will find it here at PPT.

It’s downright frustrating when you drive out to the lake and launch your boat in the water, only to discover that your engine won’t start. Unless you have a battery-powered trolling motor as backup, you’re essentially dead in the water. By doing a little troubleshooting, however, you can usually identify the cause of your failing engine – and once you’ve identified the cause, you can work to fix/repair it.

Batteries

If your boat’s engine operates with power from a battery bank, check to make sure the connections are securely attached. It’s not uncommon for connections to shake loose from the vibrations created by the boat. Over time, these vibrations will gradually loosen the cables until it no longer has a connection. Double-check your batteries’ cables and connections, ensuring they are tight and secure.

Even if the battery cables and terminals are intact, corrosion may restrict or completely prevent the flow of electricity to the engine. If you discover corrosion, use a wire grill brush along with baking soda to clean it. The baking soda serves two purposes: it will neutralize any spilled acid, and it will create a paste-like consistency that helps clean away rust.

Old Fuel

Another possible reason why your boat’s engine won’t start is because it’s filled with old fuel. This is particularly problematic during the early spring months, as the stagnant fuel loses its ability to create combustion. When storing your boat, try to get into the habit of cranking the motor at least once a month. Doing so will keep the fuel moving and prevent impurities from settling inside.
If you believe old fuel is to blame, siphon it out and replace it with fresh fuel.

Damaged or Twisted Fuel Line

Once you’ve ruled out the possibility of old fuel, you should check the line running from your tank to the engine. If the fuel line is damaged, twisted or crimped, it won’t be able to supply fuel to the engine; thus, the engine won’t start. Fuel lines tend to wear down with age, and some of them may even corrode due to the constant moisture to which they are exposed. You can often fix crimps and twists, but a corroded fuel lime will likely need to be replaced.

Water

Lastly, check to make sure there’s adequate water flowing to your boat’s engine. First-time boat owners are often surprised to learn that engines pull and use water as a coolant. Without this water, the engine may overheat and/or stop running.

It’s hard to enjoy a day at the lake when you’re boat isn’t responding to the steering wheel. Making otherwise simple turns can prove to be a challenge. Before you head to the closest marina/repair shop, however, you should first attempt to diagnose and fix the problem yourself.

Not Enough Grease

If your boat’s steering is unusually stiff, you should first check to make sure there’s adequate grease on the motor. Grease is necessary to keep the components moving and functioning as they are intended. Without this lubrication, the steering wheel may be difficult to turn.

Look under the power head of your motor where the motor pivots on the shaft. There should be several well-greased nipples here to promote smooth, unrestricted movement. A good rule of thumb is to grease this area about once every 12 months. If it’s been longer than 12 months since you’ve added grease to this area, or if there’s little-to-no visible grease remaining, go ahead and add some.

Steering Cable Corrosion

Another possible reason why your boat is difficult to steer is the presence of corrosion around the steering cable. When rust and corrosion settles on the cable, it can restrict its normal movement; thus, causing “stiffness” in the steering. This is especially problematic in saltwater boats, as salt speeds up the corrosion process while simultaneously leaving behind grains of abrasive salt.

Depending on the severity of the corrosion, you may be able to clean the cable by scrubbing it. There are several high-quality motor cleaning products that work wonders on steering cables. Just as an employee at your local boat supply store for a recommendation. If the corrosion has eaten through the cable, however, your best bet is to replace it.

Grease Entering The Support Tubes

There are support tubes located on the of the engine which have grease fittings. In some cases, the grease from these fittings will get sucked into the support tubes. When this occurs, the grease is pumped up through the cable jacket, resulting in a phenomenon known as a hydraulic lock. Unfortunately, the only way to fix this problem is to replace the entire cable.

These are just a few of the most common reasons why boats are difficult to steer. Go through each of these scenarios to troubleshoot and identify your problem. Failing to address this problem could lead to further damage of your boat’s motor and its respective components.

If you’re in the market for a new heavy-duty yet fully portable watercraft, you should look into the KaBoat. Manufactured by Saturn Inflatables, the KaBoat is a versatile watercraft that’s becoming more and more popular thanks to its unique features and durable characteristics. Whether it’s fishing, rafting, exploration or just for a nice and relaxing day out on the lake, the KaBoat has you covered. To learn more about this highly versatile watercraft, keep reading.

You’re probably wondering why this vessel is called a KaBoat. Well, it’s actually a combination of two words: kayak and boat, which is the exact principle behind this amazing vessel. It’s as versatile and portable as a kayak, but it’s just as durable and fast as a boat. The KaBoat takes the positive features from both the kayak and boat and combines them into one.

Portability

Arguably, one of the most attractive features of the KaBoat is its portability. No longer are you forced to spend half an hour or longer trying to hook your watercraft up to a trailer. The KaBoat is a completely inflatable vessel that can be broken down into a small backpack. Once you reach your destination, use either a manual foot-pump or electric pump to fill the vessel with air. The entire process should only take you a couple of minutes, allowing you to spend more time on the water and less time getting your vessel into the water.

Stability

Of course, the KaBoat is also more stable than traditional watercraft vessels. This is due to its unique double hull design, which naturally improves stability on the water. With more stability, you’ll have a smoother time riding through water. While this is helpful for anyone using the KaBoat, it’s especially beneficial for fishermen. Rather than sitting down to fish, you can stand up on the KaBoat for a full 360-degree view of your surroundings. The added stability of the KaBoat will keep you safe and comfortable while allowing you to fully enjoy the sport of fishing.

Shallow Water Access

The KaBoat is capable of accessing rivers, streams and shallow bodies of water with ease. If you intend to venture into shallow waters such as this, simply raise the engine so it won’t hit the bottom and continue on your journey. Other vessels would likely suffer damage or even become stuck in shallow waters, but the KaBoat is designed to handle waters of all shapes and sizes.

According to public data released by the U.S. Coast Guard, there were 4,062 recreational boating accidents reported in 2013, causing 2,620 injuries, 560 deaths, and $29 million worth of property damage (source). Unfortunately, many people overlook the fundamentals of safety when operating a boat. Whether you’re going fishing, skiing, or simply enjoying a summer afternoon on the water, you’ll want to follow these 5 steps to ensure a safe experience for everyone on board.

#1) Life Jackets

There’s a reason why they are called life jackets — because they save lives. The majority of drowning deaths are attribute to life jackets not being present. Laws regarding Personal Flotation Devices (PFD) vary from state-to-state, but a good rule of thumb is to keep one U.S. Coast Guard-certified life jacket (PFD) on board for each passenger.

#2) Coast Guard Vessel Check

Did you know that the U.S. Guard Coast issues free vessel and safety gear checks? They will examine your boat and its respective equipment to ensure it meets both the federal and state regulations. And if you don’t have access to a coast guard in your area, you can check out their website for an online virtual safety check. Did I mention boat inspections by the coast guard are free?

#3) Watch The Weather

The worst place you can be when a bad storm rolls through is stuck on a boat in the middle of a lake. Check the weather before heading out to ensure your boating experience is safe and enjoyable for everyone on board. If you notice sudden gusts of strong wind, lightning flashes on the horizon, and/or a sudden change in humidity, it’s probably time to call it a day and head back to the docks.

#4) Keep a Fire Extinguisher On Board

Each and every vessel should have a working fire extinguisher, because just seconds can mean the difference between sinking and floating. Don’t just toss an old fire extinguisher in the storage compartment of your boat and call it a day, but instead test it out beforehand to ensure it’s charged and functional.

#5) Stay Lit

When the sun begins to edge its way closer and closer down towards the horizon, you’ll want to sure your boat is visible to others on the water by turning on your lights. The U.S. Coast Guard requires all boats — including sailboats — to display navigation lights between sunset and sunrise. Exact specifications regarding lighting requirements varies from state-to-state, so check with your respective state’s laws before heading out on the water.

Wakeboarding and wake surfing are two highly popular surface water sports that focus on riding waves and boat wakes while performing various tricks. Each summer, tens of thousands of thrill-seekers from across the country hit the water to participate in these sports. The endless freedom of movement and beautiful scenery these sports offer are just a few of the many reasons why so many people participate in it.

Based on their name alone, you might assume wakeboarding and wake surfing refer to the same sport. While they share some similarities, they are two different sports with their own unique characteristics.

The Board

Le’ts first talk about one of the most important elements of any surface water sport: the board. Wake surf boards are typically longer with more a surfboard-like design (hence the sport’s name). The average length of a wake surf board is 4-5 feet. Alfonso Corona was awarded with the first “wake surf board” patent in 1997, although the sport has been around since the 1950s and 60s.

Wakeboards are generally constructed with a buyout center and fiberglass coating for a superior level of performance on the water. Fins are often interchangeable, allowing the user to tailor their board to their ride style.

The Technique

The primary difference between wakeboarding and wake surfing lies in the technique. In wakeboarding, the user holds a boat-towed rope throughout the duration of the ride. This is in stark contrast to wake surfing where the user releases the rope to ride out a wake. When a wake surfer approaches a large wake, he or she will drop the line to ride the peak in a similar fashion as surfing (hence the name, wake surfing). Granted, some wake surfers will hold the rope through multiple wakes, but this reduces the rider’s speed and agility.

Boats used in wakeboarding are typically more complex, featuring large “wake towers” made of stainless steel and aluminum piping. The purpose of these towers is to raise the rope’s pull point 6-7 feet higher than the surface of the water. This allows for greater maneuverability when performing in-air tricks. Ski boats and even jet skis are often used to tow wake surfers. People who are serious about the sport of wake surfing weigh their boats down with cinder blocks, water, metal and other heavy objects to create larger wakes. These larger wakes promote bigger, more exciting jumps for the rider. Wakesurfing requires an inboard boat where the propeller is under the boat. For obvious reason being so close to the back of the boat/propeller the typical sterndrive is not safe for surfing whereas it is for wakeboarding. Wakesurfing requires an inboard boat where the propeller is under the boat. For obvious reason being so close to the back of the boat/propeller the typical sterndrive is not safe for surfing whereas it is for wakeboarding.
Wakesurfing is becoming the sport of choice not only for the younger crowd but also the 40+ age group. We sold a Tige wakeboard/surf boat a couple of years ago to a customer that shot a video of them making a peanut butter sandwich while surfing. It offers the luxury of allowing the rider to be as laid back or aggressive as they choose. I guess it depends on your personal preference.

So, which surface water sport is the best? Wakeboarding and wake surfing are two exhilarating sports with their own unique advantages and disadvantages that people of all ages and backgrounds can enjoy. I recommend trying them both to determine which one is right for you.

The Volvo Penta 5.0 GL is a Carbureted Sterndrive model marine engine. Therefore the steps required for winterization will include the normal draining, engine oil, fuel system stabilization and gear lube verification. Remember to always verify your manufacturer’s specific requirements to make sure you don’t overlook one of their required steps.

Small businesses are collaborating on a grassroots level with online powerhouses eBay, PayPal, StubHub and other eBay Inc. communities to learn about and respond to public policy, such as the Marketplace Fairness Act (S.336/H.R. 684).

The virtual headquarters of the initiative, www.ebaymainstreet.com, is where businesses are coming together to determine how daily net-based commerce could be affected by ongoing public policy efforts.

According to the site, the eBay Inc. Main Street community is free to join and is inclusive of more than 500,000 buyers, sellers, merchants, users, and private individuals.  The site’s members are interested in the sale of online goods and services and how commerce and entrepreneurship could be aided or hindered by Internet laws and regulation.  A list of participating businesses is available online.

The eBay Inc. Main Street program contacts its affiliates between four and six times per year with legislative matters of interest.

One issue of interest to the program at this time is the Marketplace Fairness Act, where eBay Inc. Main Street is encouraging Internet-enabled retailers to meet with members of Congress to discuss how online marketplaces have helped small businesses grow and prosper, and how changes to Internet sales tax legislation, cross-border trade legislation, and mobile payments policies could impact those business initiatives. This particular piece of legislation can be followed across the major social media platforms by using #nonettax hashtag.

“The solution is simple: if Congress passes online sales tax legislation, we believe small businesses with less than 50 employees or less than $10 million in annual out-of-state sales should be exempt from the burden of collecting sales taxes nationwide,” the Action Center of eBay Inc. Main Street relates.

For more information about these eBay Inc. Main Street efforts, visit the organization online, or contact us here at Performance Product Technologies and we’ll help you find the information you need.

*Image source www.donttaxtheinter.net

Oklahoma is usually not considered a coastal state. Anyone who calls Oklahoma “land locked” must not be aware of the over 200 lakes in the state where scores of tourists and natives go boating, swimming, fishing, and more each year. One of the most important bodies of water that makes Oklahoma a hub for water recreation and travel is the McGee Creek Reservoir. Located in the McGee Creek State Park in Atoka County, the lake features the best fishing in the state and camping all year long. Lake Hefner and Grand Lake provide a luxurious boating experience.

McGee Creek Reservoir is home to wildlife of all kinds. Catch a giant trophy bass to make for dinner at the campgrounds, or get an authentic hunting experience at the nearby Bugaboo Canyon Natural Scenic Area. Get a permit for your fishing boat and come fish the expansive 3,350 acre lake. Replace any parts needed on your fishing boat with Mercury or Mercruiser parts from the 2014 Performance Product Technologies catalog.

Lake Hefner is a great option for sailboat enthusiasts. Set up camp and then get out on the water, catch a breeze, and take a relaxing trip around one of the biggest lakes in Oklahoma. This Oklahoma City reservoir also features recreational fishing of large and smallmouth bass, channel catfish, walleye, and bluegill. Lake Hefner and Grand Lake are also adjacent to upscale lakeside communities for the more refined camping experience.

This summer, vacation in Oklahoma, home to Performance Product Technologies a wide range of water recreation activities.