To dewinterize your sailboat in Cobourg, Ontario, Canada, follow these steps, keeping in mind the late start to spring in this region:
1. Initial Inspection and Cleaning (Do this on a warmer day):
Remove the cover: Carefully take off the winter cover or shrink wrap. Inspect it for damage that might need repair before next winter.
Check for pests: Look for any signs of rodents, insects, or birds inside and outside the boat.
Clean the interior: Air out the boat. Clean all surfaces, including lockers, bilges, and the head. Remove any moisture-absorbing products used during winter storage.
Inspect the hull: Check for any new blisters, cracks, or damage to the hull. Pay attention to the waterline area. Clean the hull if necessary.
2. Engine and Mechanical Systems:
Engine fluids: Check the levels of engine oil, coolant, transmission fluid, and power steering fluid. Change the oil and filter if it wasn't done before winterizing.
Cooling system: If you drained the raw water cooling system, inspect hoses for cracks or leaks and then refill with coolant if necessary for your engine type. For closed systems, check coolant levels and hoses.
Fuel system: Inspect fuel lines and connections for leaks or damage. Check and replace fuel filters if needed. If the fuel tank was left full with stabilizer, it should be okay, but consider having the fuel polished if you have any concerns about its quality.
Belts and hoses: Inspect all engine belts for wear, cracking, or looseness. Check all hoses for leaks, swelling, or cracks and ensure clamps are tight.
Lubrication: Lubricate all moving parts like seacocks, winches, steering components, and control cables.
Propeller and shaft: Inspect the propeller for damage (dings, bends). Ensure it spins freely. Check the propeller shaft for any signs of damage or excessive play.
3. Electrical System:
Batteries: Reinstall charged batteries, ensuring terminals are clean and connections are tight. Check electrolyte levels in lead-acid batteries and top off with distilled water if needed.
Electrical connections: Inspect all wiring connections for corrosion and clean them. Apply dielectric grease to prevent future corrosion.
Lights and electronics: Test all navigation lights, interior lights, electronics (GPS, VHF, depth sounder, etc.), and other electrical systems to ensure they are functioning correctly.
4. Plumbing and Water Systems:
Freshwater system: If you used antifreeze, flush the entire freshwater system thoroughly with fresh water. Sanitize the water tanks. Inspect hoses and connections for leaks.
Head (Toilet) and holding tank: Flush the head several times with fresh water. Ensure the holding tank is empty and functioning correctly. Inspect hoses and connections for leaks.
Seacocks and thru-hulls: Open all seacocks and check that they operate smoothly. Inspect hoses connected to thru-hulls for leaks and ensure clamps are tight.
5. Rigging and Sails:
Standing rigging: Carefully inspect all shrouds, stays, turnbuckles, and chainplates for any signs of corrosion, damage, or wear. Ensure turnbuckles are properly adjusted and locknuts are secure.
Running rigging: Check all halyards, sheets, and control lines for chafing, wear, or damage. Replace any worn lines.
Sails: Unfold and inspect sails for any tears, damage, or mildew. Clean them if necessary.
Spars: Inspect the mast and boom for any bends, cracks, or damage. Check all fittings and connections.
6. Safety Equipment:
Life jackets: Inspect all life jackets for damage and ensure they are the correct size and type. Check that you have the required number.
Fire extinguishers: Check the expiration dates and pressure gauges on all fire extinguishers. Ensure they are readily accessible.
Flares and signaling devices: Check the expiration dates on flares and other visual distress signals. Ensure you have a sound-producing device (horn or whistle).
First aid kit: Check and restock your first aid kit.
Bilge pumps: Test all bilge pumps (automatic and manual) to ensure they are working correctly. Check for any obstructions in the bilge.
Anchor and rode: Inspect the anchor, chain, and rode for any damage or wear. Ensure the anchor windlass (if equipped) is functioning properly.
7. Final Checks Before Launch:
Drain plugs: Ensure all drain plugs are properly installed and tightened.
Dock lines and fenders: Check the condition of your dock lines and fenders.
Registration and documentation: Ensure your boat registration and any other required documents are current and onboard.
Important Considerations for Cobourg, Ontario:
Late Spring: Be patient with dewinterizing. Even if there are a few warm days, ensure that the risk of hard frost has passed before refilling water systems or launching. Freezing temperatures can still occur in early spring in this region and damage systems that have been filled.
Moisture: Pay close attention to any signs of moisture inside the boat after winter storage. Ensure proper ventilation as temperatures warm up to prevent mold and mildew growth.
Professional Assistance:
If you are unsure about any of these steps or encounter any issues, it's always best to consult with a qualified marine technician in the Cobourg area. They can provide expert advice and ensure your sailboat is safely and correctly dewinterized for the upcoming sailing season on Lake Ontario.
