Winterizing Summer Vehicles: Proper Ways to Store Boats, RVs, and Motorcycles
Now that summer has ended, it’s time to start thinking about storing your seasonal vehicles during the offseason. If you live somewhere prone to unpredictable weather patterns and unforgiving precipitation, improper vehicle storage could lead to lasting damage that puts a serious dent in your wallet. We’ve compiled essential tips for long-term boat and RV storage to help keep your vessels in tiptop shape before your next adventure.
What Is Winterizing?
Winterizing vehicles involves preparing them for the winter, whether you plan on driving through blizzards or parking them at a vehicle storage facility. For any vehicle that will sit unused during these months, it’s essential to prepare them for conditions like snow and freezing temperatures. This process involves monitoring tire pressure, changing out oil, checking fluids, and more for most vehicles. Check your vehicle’s manual to avoid missing any essential steps.
Winter Storage for Boats
Responsible boat storage involves preparation and attentiveness, and whether you plan on storing in your garage or investing in indoor boat storage facilities, you’ll need to take proper precautions once boating season ends.
- Wash the boat. Clean off any debris from the exterior. You should also wax it to protect it from precipitation.
- Eliminate moisture. Ensure your boat is dry before storing, and place moisture absorbers inside.
- Maintain general cleanliness. Empty out any trash cans and food storage.
- Conduct fluid maintenance. Change the oil, and add fogging oil to your carburetor.
- Care for your engine. Inspect your engine for any potential maintenance that needs to be had. Flush the engine out and put in a new load of fluid.
- Remove the battery. Disconnect your boat’s battery and store it in a dry, cool place.
- Cover it up. Use a waterproof boat cover to help protect your boat’s exterior from the elements.
Winterizing Ideas for RV Storage
While technical maintenance can be very similar between vehicle varieties, including engine care and waterproof covering, storage for your RV has additional factors to consider, especially if you plan on braving the snow to embark on a road trip. Below are some things you should add to your RV storage ideas checklist:
- Check your tires. Inspect for damage and low air pressure so they’ll be ready for their next use. Put something between your tires and the ground to help maintain pressure.
- Flush out fluids. Drain and flush water tanks and water heaters, bypassing the water heater. Run antifreeze through drains and your water system.
- Ward off pests. Remove any food and trash, and seal off opens that may draw bugs or rodents.
- Take out the battery. Remove the battery and store it elsewhere after fully charging.
Winter Storage for Motorcycles
While they’re smaller than other recreational vehicles, providing the utmost care for motorcycles will help you in the long run the next time you hit the open road. Tips for motorcycle storage include:
- Wash it off. Wash and wax your motorcycle once it becomes too cold outside to ride.
- Fill the tank. Keep your gas tank full and add a fuel stabilizer.
- Use antifreeze. Put antifreeze in the coolant system.
- Grease up the parts. Lubricate all moving parts to help avoid rust.
- Remove the battery. Like other vehicles, the battery should be removed and stored away from the winter weather.
Find Your Ideal Winter Vehicle Storage at Advantage Storage
From covered boat storage to indoor RV storage, the experts at Advantage Storage have you covered when it comes to convenient, affordable seasonal storage for vehicles. Our boat and RV storage solutions can help you open up space in your garage for winter equipment and create a dependable parking spot that won’t break the bank.
Contact us today to discover your perfect storage space and find Advantage Storage at a location near you.