It must take a really long cold snap for things to freeze. It has been really COLD here for over 2 weeks, lows 20 or lower and a high of mid to lower 30's. This last week it 14 at night and a hi of 24 - 32 for over a week. I figured everything stored in my boat that was not winterized was frozen.

I went down to install some equipment on the boat, and to my amazment, nothing was frozen. I had cleaners, sun tan stuff, and other things that was fine. Another guy pulled his 40' Super Hawaii out and the water in his bilge was a little slushy, but 99% liquid which he drained. Other people came down to the marina that did not winterize at all, and so far no problems.

The boat is in a dry storage facility, but there is no heat and the 4 doors are open from 8 to 5. Don't know if that makes a difference or not?!!?!

Thankful no-one had any problems!!!

I personally believe it takes a sustained period of subzero temps to really get things frozen up inside the engine (our primary concern unless you have plumbing). Now of course there are exceptions as there are to every rule. I certainly wouldn't compare the relatively moderate climate of Va. Beach to say Minnesota or Wisconsin, but here n our area we're typically pretty well off...Though I did have a sheet of ice in and around my docks and bulkhead yesterday a.m....
Bill today we actually get back up into the 40's.....BUT, more cold air and snow tonight and tomorrow...

About five years ago, I was late in winterizing my boat. It wasn't as cold as it's been for the last few weeks, but when i fired it up water was pouring into the bilge...thank God for brass freeze plugs. Now I do it on time each year.

Craig

Yep, I never meant not to take the safe side....

It seems that the oil cooler is the first thing to go.

I can tell you here in Phila Pa my office has it's pipes all under the concrete floor. So now I have NO running water. all is frozen. Local water Co came out and shut water off until it thaws out maybe in a few warm days.

Have to agree with intolerant oil cooler will split first ..watch for oil aaarrrggg