Good Winterizing Checklist for a TC 255

peterbrownell

Apologies if this has been covered before (my guess is that it has) but wondering if anyone had a good winterizing checklist for a Tom Cat 255.

We are in Vermont and this will be our first winterization for the new boat. Any tips and tricks would be appreciated.

Thanks in advannce.

Captains Cat · Posted: Thu Sep 02, 2010 8:58 am Post subject:

Peter, a lot depends on how "protected" the boat is from the elements.

Stored inside, outside with/without cover, etc.

I assume you're not bringing the little fella in the house with you?

Charlie

matt_unique · Posted: Thu Sep 02, 2010 9:06 am Post subject: Here you go

Here it is:

http://www.c-brats.com/viewtopic.php?t=10117&start=0

Basically wash down, engine service, water system, shrink wrap or otherwise covered BEFORE any leaves fall on her as they stain badly (I cover with a tarp while I winterize - then remove tarp for shrink wrap), moisture muncher in the cabin, mark and zip tie your electrical wires as you remove them from the battery terminals, charge and store bats inside, etc.

Napoleon comes out Halloween weekend depending upon the weather forecast. I have taken her out mid November before but I don't like working on engines below freezing.

I hope your season is not too short!

Captains Cat · Posted: Thu Sep 02, 2010 2:31 pm Post subject:

In addition to all the things in that thread, put about a half gallon of "pink stuff" in each sponson bilge. If there is ANY water in there, it will crack the Rule Automatic bilge pumps...They can't get it all out so there's always a little bit.

I pour some in the shower drain too until the automatic shower pan pump comes on, that ensures those lines are full .

matt_unique · Posted: Thu Sep 02, 2010 9:02 pm Post subject: Yes

peterbrownell · Posted: Fri Sep 03, 2010 8:08 am Post subject:

Mega thanks for the advice and for the link to the prior discussions on this topic.

"Destiny" will be shrink wrapped and storred outside. Want to bring the Suzuki outboards to the dealer to have them checked out at least this first season. Unfortunately, there are no dealers in Vermont. Will have to trailer the boat ~ 80 miles to a dealer in upstate New York.

Bummer to be even thinking about winter. It has been one of the better summers for boating in Vermon thts season.

Again, thanks for everyone's help.

Captains Cat · Posted: Fri Sep 03, 2010 9:42 am Post subject:

Peter, how many hours on the engines? That trip may be unnecessary for all but your peace of mind. That's important too though.. Glad you like the boat, it has been a good year, with the current exception of "EARL".

Charlie

peterbrownell · Posted: Fri Sep 03, 2010 9:47 am Post subject:

Charlie,

Thanks for the note. I do know the trip to the dealer isn't absolutely necessary but for my peace of mind I want to check with them as we prepare for our first Vermont winter with the boat.

Also want to get to meet them and see where they are. Since there are no dealers in Vermont we need to get to know and be comfortable with the nearest deler even if it is quite a trek.

Take care.

Captains Cat · Posted: Sat Sep 04, 2010 10:07 am Post subject:

Speaking of cold weather, snow and TomCats, here's a page from the latest (Sept/Oct) Boat US trailering magazine. Shows a TC255 in the snow near a ramp.

Whose is it?