How to winterise your boat engine step by step

Most of the breakdowns that come into the workshop in spring aren't caused by sailing, they're caused by a poor winter layup. These are the steps that really matter.

1. Change the oil BEFORE storing it

Used oil contains acids and water that corrode the engine during the months it sits idle. Change it warm at the end of the season, not at the start of the next one.

2. Protect the cooling circuit

Drain the seawater and circulate antifreeze/inhibitor through the circuit. Standing water and salt are silent enemies.

3. Fuel and filters

Fill the tank (to avoid condensation), add stabiliser and change the fuel filter. Old diesel breeds microorganisms.

4. Anodes, belts and batteries

Check the sacrificial anodes, loosen the belts and disconnect/maintain the batteries with a trickle charger.

5. Internal preservation

Fogging oil into the intake protects the cylinders and valves. Cover the exhaust and intake to keep out moisture and pests.

Would you rather leave it to the workshop? We do it for you and hand it back ready to start in spring.