Duchow's Deluxe Sterndrive Winterization

Each inboard/outboard (sterndrive) package is prepared as follows:

1)  Each sterndrive unit is drained of gear lube, inspected for metal or water in the gear lube, and O.E.M. manufacture recommended product.

2)  Each stern drive unit bellows system is inspected for cracks, holes, or any other signs of damage or leaking.

3)  Each water separating fuel filter (if applicable) is removed, inspected for fuel system condition, and replaced with new.

4)  Each engine is run up to operating temperature with water and inspected for proper water circulation and operating condition.

5)  Each engine is then attached to a winterizing tank which contains environmentally safe non-toxic anti-freeze good to 40 degrees below zero for protection of your engine during the harshest of Chicago winters. The anti-freeze is left in the engine cooling system to protect against corrosion and harmful moisture build-up.

6)  Each gasoline system is treated with stabil fuel treatment to prevent the fuel system from destabilizing over the winter.

7)  Each engine is then fogged to internally protect cylinders, pistons, and valves from rust by coating them with a thin layer of oil.

8)  Each engine battery is then checked for condition, charged if needed, and then disconnected from both terminals and left in the boat.

9)  Each boat drain plug is removed and stored in the boat.

After this comprehensive winterization program is performed on your engine and outdrive the boat is then ready for the winter without any fear of damage due to freezing.

   

This advertised Duchows procedure is contrary to the management statement that "no engine is run with water at Duchows after September 1st."

Then internal miscommunication results in "do-it-yourself" Owner Manual draining to be nullified, resulting in significant engine freeze damage.