Partial winterization?

[Dr. D]

With our boat in the mid-Chesapeake Bay, there are many days in the winter when the weather is pleasant enough for a sail. I will winterize most of the systems -- water tanks, AC, and the like. But can I leave the motor unwinterized, or somehow partially winterized? Or is the effort to secure it after a day sail not worth it?

[thinwater]

I have an outboard powered catamaran (PDQ 32). I winterize the main systems (potable, head, AC) and then simply tip the engines up. We flush the head with a weak AF jug in the winter.

An inboard makes that complicated. Yup, I've seen water bottles frozen in the cabin.

[Dymaxion]

Inboard or outboard?. If Inboard: freshwater or heat exchanger + antifreeze? In either IB case you'll need to pour antifreeze into the inlet strainer once back at the dock and keep pouring until you see the exhaust/water discharge change to antifreeze colour. Then shut down immediately. Pls use an environmentally "safe" antifreeze. You're still playing Russian roulette in that although the antifreeze should have gotten thoroughly into the engine and wet lift, it may be diluted enough not to work at your coldest winter temps. Caveat emptor.

[Lepke]

Depending on the engine plumbing, you can add drains to the salt water system and drain after using. I do that will a small boat I carry.

[Dr. D]

Inboard. Sounds not so good.