Taking a year off

maccauley123 · #1 (**permalink**) 03-27-2008

I am taking this summer off from sailing so I can get a bunch of projects done on my boat. She is a bit old and needs some work and spit and polish so I can get her where I want her. I won't be able to get what I want done in time for launch.

She is on stands at my house and will be under cover most of the time with plenty of ventilation. Mast is stored at a yard inside. I winterized the engine and head.

Is there anything else I should do for a boat that will essentially sit unused for an extra 12 months.

The other big question is can I survive without sailing for a season, may have to try crewing just to get my fix.

sailingdog · #2 (**permalink**) 03-27-2008

Good luck...

Stillraining · #3 (**permalink**) 03-27-2008

Add stabilizer to the fuel...if gas may want to fog the cylinders...no need on diesel for just one year..

TrueBlue · #4 (**permalink**) 03-27-2008

Quote:

Is there anything else I should do for a boat that will essentially sit unused for an extra 12 months.

Even with a "watertight" cover and "ample" ventilation, over a length of time rain water and condensation always seems to find it's way into an older boat.

That said, make every attempt to remove all standing water from the keel-bilge. The boat's electric bilge pump never gets it all - so hand pump and sponge dry the remaining liquid, then check the bilges regularly. This will at least minimize the accumulation of mold & mildew. A couple of open containers of Damp-Rid is also good insurance.

sailingdog · #5 (**permalink**) 03-27-2008

Also, remove all the food from the boat... this will minimize insect and rodent infestation...