As much as we hate to face the impending end of summer (and we aren’t saying you have to put your boat away just yet), it is a smart idea to think about how you’re going to winterize your boat. Before you know it, the days will be getting shorter and the days cooler and already having a plan for your boat will make the winterization process smoother. Whether you are a seasoned boater or new to quite possibly the most pleasurable sport on the planet, you probably already know that cleaning, draining, greasing, changing the oil, and storing are some of the recommendations. Proper winterization prevents costly damage from freezing and corrosion and ensures that next summer, you’ll be able to launch that beauty without a hitch!

Replacing boat metal hardware before temperatures drop, including boat snaps and other marine hardware, protects snaps from rusting shut or malfunctioning. As a top supplier of high-quality metal boat hardware, Hensggen Hardware sells hardware of the finest quality materials and workmanship. Our steel, stainless steel, brass, nickel-plated, and die cast boat snap hooks will not corrode or rust when exposed to cold temperatures or harsh weather.

Besides replacing worn snaps with top quality boat snaps, here are some additional tips to properly winterize your boat to and experience smooth sailing next summer:

• • Clean your boat! There’s nothing worse than pulling the cover off a boat with dirt carpet or spill stains
  • To prevent rust, sand and repaint the hull
  • Remove the battery and store in a dry place
  • Apply rust inhibitor to metal hardware that is in good condition
  • Place seat cushions on their ends to prevent mildew and set up some mildew control bags
  • Drain fluid from engine block, coolers, and water pumps
  • Empty and fill gear case with lubricant
  • If applicable, drain porta potty and pump antifreeze into faucets
  • Add additives to a full gas tank and run the engine for at least 15 minutes so they reach the fuel lines.
  • Get rid of salt, sediment, and rust by backwashing the cooling system and purchase a winterization kit to draw antifreeze into the system
  • Replace oil, oil filters, and fuel-water separator
  • If necessary, replace belts and hoses
  • Grease lubricate steering, trim, and sterndrive gimbal parts
  • Store your boat in a temperature controlled structure or cover with a large tar

Follow these tips for properly putting your boat “on ice” for the winter! Henssgen Harwdware is a leading distributor of over 100 boat snap hooks and assorted hardware including assorted snap hooks, pulleys, quick links, and more! Call us at 1-800-833-9598, contact us online, and check out our amazing selection of industrial rigging hardware in our product catalog.