Whaler Central - Boston Whaler Boat Information and Photos

Posted by CES on 09/12/09 - 6:21 AM

With the Fall season just around the corner, I've decided to come up with a Fall season "To Do" preventive maintenance/upkeep list for the Whaler. Here are some things I plan on doing to her:

1. Remove and replace the Impeller and gasket
2. Change out the lower unit gear lube
3. Remove corrosion, prime and paint the lower unit
4. Remove, clean and re-install the spark plugs
5. Remove, clean/replace and re-install the fuel filter
6. Grease the steering arm assembly
7. Tighten any loose screws on the bench seating and the wooden steering console
8. Wash and wax the hull
9. Remove any excess grease from the trailer rims
10. Touch up any areas on the trailer that are showing signs of corrosion
11. Inspect the boat and trailer wiring
12. If I plan on not using the Whaler for a while, I plan on using a little "Sta-bil" fuel preserver in my fuel tank.

Is there anything that I am missing?

What do you guys do to your boat to prep it for the winter?

Thanks for any input!

Posted by CES on 09/12/09 - 12:43 PM

Wow, it's a good thing that I decided to change out the impeller....even though it's only two years old. One of the rubber blades was broken and semi blocking the pick-up tube leading up to the motor. Additionally, the impeller looked VERY worn...I must have picked up a lot of sand or something.

Lesson learned: Replace the impeller every two years (or less) and also when the stream coming out of the motor doesn't seem as strong as it should be....take a look at your impeller.

Edited by CES on 09/12/09 - 12:44 PM

Posted by Phil T on 09/13/09 - 5:07 AM

Here are a few items, some for those in cold climates:

Lube the wheel bearings, trailer coupler and tongue jack.
Check trailer tire air pressure.
Remove GPS, Fishfinder and other electronics and place in basement with the battery.
Removed ball mount from tow vehicle and clean out hitch opening.
Rinse and dry anchor, chain and rode, deck lines and bumpers.
Replace water-separator filter (mark date and engine hours on new one prior to install.
Wash and dry canvas (bimini, T-top, bow dodger et al.)
Set reminder for boat/trailer registration in your calendar.
Inspect/repair/replace winter frame, tarp and bungies.
Fog the engine.

While many are starting to winterize, I expect to be on the water till November.

Posted by Yiddil on 09/13/09 - 12:15 PM

Phil, I expect to be on the water until end of Nov or early Dec since weather has been warmer here and less winter the last few seasons...or until my back gives out completely...elbow is still caput but I wrap in and go...But I should not have picked up Kamie's water logged 13 with her and flip it, that didn't do me any good at all except I was glad to finally give her a hand...Back:)

Phil lets talk about a Potomac Rend. for last spring:) henry