Wow, thanks for the quick replies and advice guys. I figured that might be the case with the barely below freezing temps and short period of time.

I'm assuming from reading your posts this blow out tool is a tool I'll have to special order?

Thanks for the hey-stupid advice- I needed it - will definitely read the manual :)

As for trusting the heated storage facility, hmm.. Well it's my local boat dealer actually, and they recommend not winterizing if keeping in their brand new heated storage facility, where million plus dollar boats are also kept. Chaparral is the cheapest line they carry so I figure with those kinds of dollars at stake and a new facility, they probably won't have too many power issues...who knows. I can always ask about insurance I guess, can't hurt :)

one night wont hurt but i would use your blue pump that is on the front of the motor and drain the water out. other then that you will be fine.

Just curious, what would be the minimum then that you'd recommend as far as winterization goes?

I've maintained and modded for years my jetskis and vehicles, but this is my first boat - so I'm a total newbie with this engine and this process - any tips on some winterization procedures I can do in the short run tonight would be great...

Edit- and when I say tips, I mean could you also briefly explain it? thx again guys :)

just drain the water out. therre is a blue pump attached to the front of the motor. right behind that there is a blue nipple. pulll off the nipple and put the pump on. pump till water comes out and two green pins will pop whenit is fully presurized.

that sounds pretty funny....

No. There should be a blue hand pump on the front of your engines heat exchanger. Like others have said, read the manual.

While were on the subject. What does it take to rust the cylinders. i.e. how cold for how long. I'm taking delivery of a boat in 2 weeks and the owner put anti-freeze in (no fogging) and I'm having it fully winterized as soon as I get it. Should I be worried about rust in the cylinders. I checked the weather and it should not get below freezing before I get the boat.

You must of stayed in a Holiday Inn last night:evilb::evilb:

More than likely its laying in the bilge just out of reach. Those damn things always fall off! :D

congrats! I take it everything checked out with the survey? Awsome I hope you enjoy the new boat. I have not seen a thread about it so I won't say what you are getting:ernaehrung004::D