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I realize this is like asking how big is big, but...

Can anyone give me any guidance on what to expect in terms of cost for taking my 17' Currituck over to my local marine shop to be winterized? All I want them to do is winterize my 88hp Johnson. I don't need the boat shrink wrapped, etc. Any ideas? My boat is in Virginia, on the Eastern Shore. If anyone has done this in the mid-Atlantic area, I'd be interested in finding out how much. And, yes, I've already considered doing it myself. But, I 1) don't have the time right now, and 2) would prefer to watch someone do it first so I can learn that way.

Big thanks!

Bruce

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Bruce, If they stabilize the gas, change the lower unit oil and fog the engine, it will cost you an hour labor plus supplies. Should be around $75 - $85 depending on rates.

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Thanks, Kamie! I was thinking ~ $100 give or take.

Bruce

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Do it yourself – it is easy. I takes me about an hour to do what Kamie suggested – including greasing all the fittings, clean/inspect the spark plug and remove the battery. I personally also disconnect the fuel supply and run all the gas out of the engine.

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I just had to add this..............With an ETEC you go through a preprogramed set of steps and it winterizes itself! :D No charge for it either

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Bruce -

In addition to Kamie's sage advice, be crystal clear to the shop on what you do and do not want done.

I have read of owners expecting a few things done for a ~$100 and then been surprised by a $600 bill for the whole "soup to nuts".

P.S. I spent some time in Pungoteauge, near Exmore, a few years ago and love your area.

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Tom,

I winterized our new Etec yesterday, took all of 3 minutes standing at the controls and shifting into neutral/full last idle twice. Seemed WAY too easy. (oh, and lubed the 3 grease fittings too) Did a friend's '87 175 after that, "the old way"... Lets just say I'm spoiled already!

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If you have a shop do it, they will charge you per hour plus parts and supplies...usually 100.-125. but thats just for those few things...if you want soup to nuts it is always more labor costs....

Just did mine, took an hour or so taking my time, and was not very hard to do. better if someone hands you a screwdriver, and even better if you have an ETEC...takes a minute to push a button:) Darn you Kamie:))

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Thanks everyone for your replies! So, from what I gather, I need to:

1. Fork over about $100 this winter
2. At the end of next season, unbolt my '94 88SP Johnson from the transom and let her slip into the murky deep
3. Go get a new ETEC

Sounds simple enough! I'd love nothing more than a new motor for my boat. Those old Johnson's just keep on working is the problem. At some point, it'll get to the point where safety, convenience, etc. will be the deciding factor.

Thanks again, everyone!