When is the last call?
 

I just wanted your opinions as to when is the last call to winterize? I mean, it's 50-60 degress out during the day, but it's starting to get in the low 30's and high 20's at night. I put a couple of drop lites in the engine compartment for added insurance:rolleyes: . Is it true that it has to be a whole day of below 32 degrees before I should worry not just a night?:eek:

There is a couple more things I'm trying to get done before I winterize which will take about another week or so.

Thanks

To crack a block takes significantly colder temperatures for extended periods. Also, remember, the engine compartment is somewhat insulated with the temperatures you are talking you should be fine. The drop lights can't really hurt but I would not be too overly concerned at these temps.

I've heard it takes several days of below freezing temps, but YMMV.

The real question is how lucky do you feel?

Why not just drain your engine block(s) and manifolds, but not winterize it until you are ready?

I drained my blocks a month ago, and out antifreeze in last weekend. We've been a little colder than you.

Its easy to drain the blocks and manifolds, but if you have oil coolers don't forget about them. Sometimes there not as easy to get to. As far as just draining the water, I hear alot of people do this, but it just doesn't seem safe to me unless there is antifreeze in there

Rumor has it that when the blocks and manifolds are drained and not filled back up with fluid, its a major breeding ground for rust.
In fact, my first boat had this problem...the previous owner bragged about how he meticulously drained the water after each use and I should do the same...six months later I'm rebuilding the engine and replacing the mainifolds and risers due to corroded and clogged manifolds/risers!!!

That is correct. Leave the blocks wet or you will just continue the rust cycle every time you drain them. The anti freeze is also a good lubricant for pumps and such.

I have not winterized yet, but I did go ahead and fill the block and all the water system with all -50 last weekend, just to be safe. I may go out this weekend, and then winterize soon thereafter. Sticking -50 AF in via the self winterize kit through the flush fitting only takes 5 minutes, and is not all that expensive.