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Preparing your boat for winter weather

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Rich_V174SS:
This is for those who must leave their boats outside over the winter.
Aside from normal engine/boat winterizing practices here is an ideal way to protect your boat from the snow:
With an impending snow storm fast approaching today was a good time to cover up the boat in such a way so snow doesn't pile up on top tearing the covers or damaging anything. I thought I'd share this little trick I learned at the boat shop, an inexpensive method we use for shrink-wrapping boats for winter storage. It involves using a couple of 1x3 16ft spruce planks and some strong twine or rope. The idea is to make an "A" frame above the boat to give the cover a steep enough grade for snow to slide off. Starting with one plank a few feet or so longer than the boat (lengthen if needed with a second piece nailing them together), tie off one end at the point of the bow. From there cut and position legs every couple of feet that will raise the plank above the boat in a nice arch without over stressing the plank. Attach the legs to the plank with a couple nails put in from the top. With cord or twine wrapped one full turn around the plank tie it off on each side of the boat to center the plank and hold it down in the arch position and finally tie it down at the stern. Then cover with your favorite cover and fasten it securely around the perimeter of the boat. I like to use an oversized 15x25 foot heavy duty tarp which will usually last me 2 seasons before disintegrating.

ChfBrianB:
Rich,
Thanks for the great information and the great pictures!  My father does this for his fishing boat, and it works really well!  I'll "sticky" this topic and keep it for others to view!

Thanks again!

Brian

Rich_V174SS:
No prob.

I created my frame and cover yesterday and during the night the snow started. This is where we are at the moment with a total of 12-18 inches expected over the next 24 hours. Notice the front of the boat, what was covered in snow has slid off without doing anything on my part. When I go out to shovel all I'll to do is pound on the cover a bit and the rest should avalanche off. I'll also put a small garbage bag around the prop to keep snow out of the gearcase.

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