I'd like to do some cold weather boating this year and need some advice. I trailer my boat and would like to launch on cold days but worry about fluids freezing to and from the water on the trailer and also if overnighting at a slip. Is there a simple way to protect against this on a performance boat?

I installed brass quick release drains on the blocks, exhaust and fuel coolers. It takes about five minutes to drain the engines. Most auto parts stores carry them.

It all depends on how long you are out in the below-freezing-point between the warmer periods. Remember, it takes much time to get iron in the blocks to go from room temperature to below the freezing point. And the oposite way. To be sure, you can add coolant into your fresh-water flush if your boat is equipped with hat right after you take the boat up. ut if it is really cold, how do you get the boat up on the ramp?? The boat has no problems running in cold weather.

Put on warm clothing and enjoy!!!

if your carbed, look out for a possible lean condition if its really cold,
fuel injection should compensate.

Thanks for all the info. I have triple engines with a flush system. I was going to flush it with anti freeze as soon as I pull it up. What about staying overnight at the dock if the air temperature drops below freezing?

as long as it doesnt go way below freezing or stays below freezing for several hours, you should be ok, you could always do one of those ceramic safe little heaters in the bilge off shore power if your really worried I think pelonious (SIC) is the company that makes them

http://www.pelonis.com/ceramic.htm