Winter Storage And Commissioning - GRAMPIAN 34 Owner's Manual

WINTER STORAGE AND SPRING COMMISSIONING:
Preparing your Grampian for winter storage is perhaps more important than
spring commissioning. The more time spent cleaning and preparing the boat for
the winter storage, the less time required for commissioning in the spring. In
addition the boat will winter better and not age as quickly, it is recommended that
these procedures be followed for winter storage:
1. The Grampian should stand on its cradle or rest on blocks under its
keel and braced fore and aft.
2. The engine should be winterized according to the engine manual and
stored in a dry location, if it is an outboard
3. All moisture in the boat should be removed. It should be sponged out
of the bilge if necessary. This is especially important because
fibreglass will over time absorb any water with which it comes in
contact
4. Clean all interior fibreglass & dirt, grease and other foreign sub-
substances. This will help prevent the interior fibreglass from
becoming stained or marked.
5. Remove all batteries, re-charge and store in dry location.
6. Pump out and drain head and related plumbing.
7. Empty water tank and related plumbing.
8. Ensure that the boat is properly ventilated. Do not close all hatches
and restrict the circulation & air.
9. Cover the boat with a cover supported by a ridge pole. This can be a
frame system made of wood or PVC pipe and fittings or the mast. If
the mast is used, it must be supported and well covered in order to
prevent damage to the mast and to keep it dry.
10. Store the mast in dry place. Spreaders should be removed, but
standing and running rigging may be left attached to the mast.
In the Spring:
1. Clean deck and bull and thoroughly wax hull. The latter will help
prevent the ultra violet rays of the sun from chalking and discolouring
the hull.
2. Clean and oil all teak (see section on care of wood).
3. Touch up or re paint bottom as necessary (see section on bottom
painting).
4. Carefully examine rigging, stuffing box and all mechanical gear for
wear and replace if necessary. Much of this can be done after the
boat goes in the water with the exception of the stuffing bar.
6.