As the Fall months creep into our calendars, boat owners in cooler climates acknowledge, with sadness, that it’s time to put the boat away. Outside Storage? It’s a thought and an option but consider that you may be threatened by snow build up, tornadoes or hurricanes. The success of storing your boat outside depends on how well your boat is protected from the conditions outdoors.                          Rinse/Flush Rinsing the outside of your boat and trailer thoroughly with fresh water will remove excess salt. Pay particular attention to your trailer’s leaf springs, wheel hubs and brakes that are constantly submerged during launching and retrieval of your boat. Flush your engine's cooling system with fresh water in line with your engine manufacturer’s salt removal recommendations. This will minimize corrosion and overheating issues come spring. Drain your boat of all water – bilge, head, sink lines, water tanks, sea-cocks, and pipes. If you are in an area with extended periods of freezing, put antifreeze in the low parts if there is still some water present. Salt Watch out for salt. Buy a good salt remover to minimize corrosion. Add fuel stabilizer to top off your fuel tanks. Here is one recommended by CLR Marine. Diesel Formula Fuel Stabilizer & Performance Improver - 32oz *Case of 4* STA-BIL Diesel Formula Fuel Stabilizer is a diesel additive that keeps fuel fresh for quick, easy starts and maximized for engine performance. Designed for use with all diesel engines, and all diesel fuels, Sta-Bil Fuel Stabilizer Diesel formula prevents sludge and sediment formation, cleans and lubricates fuel injectors to improve performance and helps remove water. It is safe to use and recommended for use at every fill up, with the 32 ounce bottle treating up to 320 gallons of fuel. Batteries Remove the batteries from your boat and store in your garage or basement. Batteries should be connected to a battery charger that will give them a good charge and one that w automatically switches to a float/trickle charge to keep your batteries topped up. Match your charger to the type of battery you are charging. Using a charger manufactured for lead acid batteries to charge an AGM (absorbent glass mat) battery will cause damage to the battery. If you choose to keep your batteries in the boat, connect a solar trickle charger. These chargers will keep your batteries topped off without the hassle of removing heavy batteries from your boat. Cleaning Clean the exterior with the proper fiber glass or wood cleaner needed for your boat. Bright work can be cleaned by removing the wood or cleaning it as it is - installed. Be careful to not get the wood cleaner onto the deck surfaces. The exterior should be dried with a chamois cloth. Vinyl seat cushions and backs should be cleaned with vinyl cleaner. Hard surfaces inside the vessel can be wiped with all purpose cleaners. End your cleaning with a coat of wax to the exterior and polish. Don’t forget the bottom paint. Before you store, spend the time to give your boat a thorough cleaning. CLR Marine has many products by trusted brands such as Powerhouse, Davis Instruments, Jabsco, Shurhold, and Swobbit, to help winterize and clean. You will be grateful in the spring during launch time that your boat is already clean as the new boating season begins. Cover Up If you store outside in your yard, driveway, or a boat yard, a boat cover is a must to prevent damage from winter conditions. Leaving your boat in the water is not recommended. The boat is exposed to rough weather, and has a greater possibility of sinking if you aren’t monitoring it often. https://www.clrmarine.com/462m4/boat-outfitting/winter-covers.html and https://www.clrmarine.com/462m4/winterizing.html Circle May 21, 2022, on your calendar. The date is almost ten days before Memorial Day, next year when most harbors open for the season. Start your prep work, tune-ups, sanding, and painting to get out on the water and a great boating season. In the meantime, during the cold winter months, cozy up to the fire and read your boating manuals, new safety regulations and weather information. Fair winds and smooth sailing.   To obtain more information about the products and services mentioned in this article, please get in touch with CLR Marine https://www.clrmarine.com/. _________________________________________________________________________ Award-winning author Cheryl Kuba has been at the helm for more than 30 years sailing the Great Lakes, with side trips to the British Virgin Islands and St. Maarten. She has served as past- Commodore of Great Lakes Fleet 21 -Chicago region. 3happycampers.com ©Copyright Cheryl Kuba, 3happycampers.com, 2021.  

Fuel System Locking Cap f/ 1-1/2" Non-Vented Fills (1324) Black Plastic with Gasket Built in Lock Cylinder Size #0 Fits PERKO Fills 1313 & 1399 Cap Outside Thread Diameter: 1-15/32"

Fuel System Locking Cap f/ 1-1/2" Non-Vented Fills (1324) Black Plastic with Gasket Built in Lock Cylinder Size #1 Fits PERKO Fills 0520, 0527, 0528, 0557, 0599 and 1270 Cap Outside Thread Diameter: 1-7/8"

Boat Hook To Lock Button Accessory Adapter  Constructed of fiberglass filled injection molded nylon for strength and UV resistance this adapter allows the Sea-Dog® boat hook to be used with Shurhold™ and other accessories that have a lock button attachment system. WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals which are known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to P65Warnings.ca.gov.

Pontoon Boat Cover Support System Extend the life of your pontoon boat cover by preventing water from pocketing. This easily installed system includes two adjustable support poles (bright dip anodized-snap ends). Poles adjust from 27" to 50" maximum height. 60ft of 1" polypropylene webbing, quick release adjuster buckles and four injection molded hooks to secure to decking. 

Fuel Systems

Boat Outfitting Equipment and Supplies When it comes time for outfitting your boat, you can get all your boating supplies and boating accessories from us. You will never need to go anywhere else for your boat outfitting, because we have all the boat supplies you need. If you're looking for anchors/chain/rope, anodes, antifouling systems or boarding ladders, we have you covered. We can also offer you a selection of bottom paint and bow thrusters to choose from. You may also want cleaning supplies that offer deck/galley options so you can get your boat sparkling and ready to enjoy. We also have display mounts and docking accessories to complete your outfitting needs.

    Purchasing and owning a boat is a major investment. If you want to get the most from your investment, you must keep your boat in working order and in good condition.   Many new boat owners don’t know how to keep up with maintenance. Fortunately, it’s not impractical if you understand what boat maintenance entails and develop a system. Below, CLR Marine discusses some maintenance essentials to prolong your boat’s lifespan and avoid safety issues on the water!   Engines   No component is perhaps more critical than your boat’s engine. Engine failure is not only inconvenient but can also be dangerous when you’re out on the water. That’s why it’s important to prepare and repair your engine while you’re on land and have access to the necessary parts.   There are many steps to checking and maintaining a boat engine, but here are a few of the most crucial ones   ●Replace all engine filters and fluids each year. ●Inspect all hoses and clamps, replacing them as needed. ●Inspect the fuel system for leaks or damage, and replace any components that are not in tiptop shape.  ●Regularly evaluate the ventilation and exhaust systems. ●Regularly inspect the raw water pump, replacing the rubber impeller once a year.  ●Closely evaluate hoses, cables, and any other engine components.   The easiest way to keep up with the responsibilities is to use PDF files to track, update, and share maintenance schedules and duties. Use this tool to add pages to a PDF and easily modify the document as needed.   Electrical Components   Your boat’s electrical system is also challenging to maintain when you’re already on the water. Avoid leaving the radio, light, or other electrical parts on for extended periods when the engine is running; otherwise, you could face a dead battery.   Inspecting the battery and cable connection for corrosion and other damage is also a good idea. Replace the battery, cables, breakers, switches, fuses, and any other parts that need it. Further, you’ll want to ensure all the lights are functioning and that you have quality jumper cables for emergencies.   Hull, Propeller, and Motor   It’s critical to check the hull, propeller, and motor to ensure they are in top condition. Fight the temptation to procrastinate on replacing any necessary components until next season. The last thing you want to do is forget and face problems on the water.   The propellers should be properly secured, straight, and undamaged. Ensure the hull doesn’t have any distortions, cracks, or blisters, and give it a good deep cleaning. While you’re at it, evaluate your anchor and its rode to confirm they are up to the task.   Safety Gear   The importance of having a good set of jumper cables for emergencies. Several other items are necessary to protect you and others on the water. Make sure you have the following safety equipment and that they’re in working order:   ●Life jackets ●Fire extinguishers ●Carbon monoxide detector ●A basic first aid kit   ●An emergency signal kit   Cosmetics   Finally, you want to ensure your boat looks the part. This means cleaning it regularly and winterizing it for the cold months. Also, Make sure you have the right to use the right supplies and tactics to keep your vinyl upholstery sparkling and free of mildew stains.   Don’t allow your investment to go to waste. Keeping up with boat maintenance is essential for keeping your boat safe, functioning, and attractive. Coming up with a schedule and a checklist can make the difference between enjoying a long-lasting boat and paying for expensive repairs.     Would you like to read more helpful content or browse our wide selection of marine supplies? Visit CLRMarine.com today!   Written By Kelli Brewer

Towing & Trailering   Trailering can add new dimensions to the sense of freedom that comes with boating, and that's one of the reasons it's so popular. With a trailerable boat, you're free to boat on just about any lake, river, bay or inlet. Trailering is great way to explore different waterways in your state or region it's also the most affordable way to store your boat. The tips below can help you learn all about towing and boat trailer maintenance.   Look for Certified Trailers  NMMA Trailer Logo. Highly trained third-party inspectors visit the manufacturer each year and physically inspect boat trailer models, ensuring compliance to all certification requirements.     Trailering your boat can add new dimensions to the freedom that comes with boating.  If you've never trailered a boat, there are several things you need to consider. First, determine the towing capacity of your car, truck or SUV. You can find this information in the owner's manual of your vehicle. Usually compact family sedans are not suitable for towing more than a small, aluminum fishing boat or PWC with a properly mounted hitch and lighting plug . Most standard pick-up trucks and SUVs can trailer boats up to 25 feet, but always consult your vehicle owner's manual for limitations.   The owner's manual of your boat will list the "dry” weight of the boat, less fuel and gear. When you're assessing your vehicle's towing capacity, be sure to add several hundred pounds to the dry weight to account for gear, gas and accessories.     As the weight, length and beam (width) of a given boat increase, so does the muscle power needed to launch and retrieve it. A small boat may be easy for one person to handle at the ramp, but larger boats (generally those more than 25 feet) may require additional hands. Don't be afraid to ask for help at the ramp if you need it, trailer boaters are always happy to help.   STOP Invasive Species   By following these guidelines:   Never release live or dead bait or bait packaging into a water body, or release aquatic animals from one water body into another. Share live bait with other anglers or empty your bait bucket in the trash before leaving the area. Don't drive the boat through aquatic plants; avoid chopping vegetation with outboard motor propeller Once on dry land, drain water out of every conceivable place that can hold water: Follow factory guidelines for eliminating water from engines. All engines hold water, but jet drives on personal watercraft and other boats can hold extra water. Remove the stern drain plug and put boat on an incline so that all the water drains out. Drain livewells, bilge and transom wells. Empty water out of kayaks, canoes, rafts, etc. Remove any visible plant, fish, and animal or fragment as well as mud, which can house them. Check trailer, in and around the boat itself, the anchor, props or steering nozzle (PWCs and jet boats), lines, fenders, paddles Rinse your boat, trailer, and equipment. Clean and dry anything that came in contact with the water. It is best to use high-pressure, hot (104°F) water or a solution of one percent table salt and water. A garden hose will work if no other option is available. Air-dry your boat and equipment for as long as possible—at least five days is optimal.               Specials   Closeouts    Remanufactured    Rebates  

Portable Fuel Tank - 6 Gallon with Gauge Attwood has engineered the industry’s only comprehensive EPA-certified fuel tank-to-engine solution. Rugged materials and innovative design stand up to harsh marine conditions. 6-gallon tank adapts to virtually any outboard engine. Includes gauge. Features: 6 Gallon fuel capacity Compatible with 1/4" NPT fuel fittings Additional oil and ullage/vapor capacity EPA Cap with automatic, high-flow vacuum valve Cap with built-in vacuum valve means no need for manual venting High-contrast & easy to read gauge Automotive-grade, multi-layer construction withstands the pressure build-up associated with closed fuel systems Meets EPA and CARB (California Air Resources Board) regulations Complies with all ABYC/NMMA requirements for portable marine fuel tanks Dimensions: Length: (inch) 19.82" Width: (inch) 13.50" Height: (inch) 9.16" *Fuel line is not included WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals which are known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to P65Warnings.ca.gov.

Portable Fuel Tank - 3 Gallon without Gauge Attwood has engineered the industry’s only comprehensive EPA-certified fuel tank-to-engine solution. Tough materials and innovative design stand up to harsh marine conditions. A 3-gallon tank is perfect for small outboards. Features:  3 Gallon fuel capacity Compatible with 1/4-inch NPT fuel fittings Additional oil and ullage/vapor capacity EPA Cap with automatic, high-flow vacuum valve UV-grade multi-layer tank material Automotive-grade, multi-layer construction withstands the pressure build-up associated with closed fuel systems Cap with built-in vacuum valve means no need for manual venting Meets EPA and CARB (California Air Resources Board) regulations Complies with all ABYC/NMMA requirements for portable marine fuel tanks Dimensions: Length: (inch) 16.6" Width: (inch) 11.45" Height: (inch) 7.3" *No gauge or fuel line included

Portable Fuel Tank - 3 Gallon with Gauge Attwood has engineered the industry’s only comprehensive EPA-certified fuel tank-to-engine solution. Tough materials and innovative design stand up to harsh marine conditions. A 3-gallon tank is perfect for small outboards. Includes gauge. Features:  3 Gallon fuel capacity Compatible with 1/4-inch NPT fuel fittings High-Contrast, easy to read gage Additional oil and ullage/vapor capacity EPA Cap with automatic, high-flow vacuum valve UV-grade multi-layer tank material Automotive-grade, multi-layer construction withstands the pressure build-up associated with closed fuel systems Cap with built-in vacuum valve means no need for manual venting Meets EPA and CARB (California Air Resources Board) regulations Complies with all ABYC/NMMA requirements for portable marine fuel tanks Dimensions: Length: (inch) 16.6" Width: (inch) 11.45" Height: (inch) 7.3" *No fuel line included

Portable Fuel Tank - 12 Gallon without Gauge Attwood has engineered the industry’s only comprehensive EPA-certified fuel tank-to-engine solution. Tough materials and innovative design stand up to harsh marine conditions. A 12-gallon tank is ideal for pontoon boats where more fuel capacity is needed. Features:  12 Gallon fuel capacity Compatible with 1/4-inch NPT fuel fittings Additional oil and ullage/vapor capacity EPA Cap with automatic, high-flow vacuum valve UV-grade multi-layer tank material Automotive-grade, multi-layer construction withstands the pressure build-up associated with closed fuel systems Cap with built-in vacuum valve means no need for manual venting Meets EPA and CARB (California Air Resources Board) regulations Complies with all ABYC/NMMA requirements for portable marine fuel tanks Dimensions: Length: (inch) 22.75" Width: (inch) 14.25" Height: (inch) 14.47" *No gauge or fuel line included

Portable Fuel Tank - 6 Gallon without Gauge Attwood has engineered the industry’s only comprehensive EPA-certified fuel tank-to-engine solution. Rugged materials and innovative design stand up to harsh marine conditions. 6-gallon tank adapts to virtually any outboard engine.  Features: 6 Gallon fuel capacity Compatible with 1/4" NPT fuel fittings Additional oil and ullage/vapor capacity EPA Cap with automatic, high-flow vacuum valve Cap with built-in vacuum valve means no need for manual venting Automotive-grade, multi-layer construction withstands the pressure build-up associated with closed fuel systems Meets EPA and CARB (California Air Resources Board) regulations Complies with all ABYC/NMMA requirements for portable marine fuel tanks Dimensions: Length: (inch) 19.82" Width: (inch) 13.50" Height: (inch) 9.16" *No gauge or fuel line included WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals which are known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to P65Warnings.ca.gov.

Portable Low Profile Fuel Tank - 12 Gallon without Gauge This Attwood 12-Gallon Fuel Tank is ideal for use in a pontoon boat, where greater fuel capacity is commonly desired for extended days on the water. This durable, sturdy tank is EPA-compliant and it features a low-profile design. It does not have a fuel gauge. Features:  12 Gallon fuel capacity Low-profile design Compatible with 1/4-inch NPT fuel fittings Additional oil and ullage/vapor capacity EPA Cap with automatic, high-flow vacuum valve UV-grade multi-layer tank material Automotive-grade, multi-layer construction withstands the pressure build-up associated with closed fuel systems Cap with built-in vacuum valve means no need for manual venting Meets EPA and CARB (California Air Resources Board) regulations Complies with all ABYC/NMMA requirements for portable marine fuel tanks Dimensions: Length: (inch) 24" Width: (inch) 18" Height: (inch) 11.61" *No gauge or fuel line included