When do I need to winterize?!?

[DaveZman14q]

I usually store my boat in a heated garage and winterize it right at first ice. This year, I do not have a garage spot and my boat sits in the driveway. I want to winterize it at the last possible minute but dont want to mess anything up.

I see the temps getting into the 20s in the very near future. What should I do?? Is this bad to have it sitting out there this weekend?? Thanks for the replies!

[mojogunter]

If it is an IO then I would do it in the next day, or put a light in the doghouse so it doesn't freeze over night. If it is an outboard just drop the motor all the way down to be sure there is no water left in it and it will be fine. I fish all winter with my outboard, just have to make sure to leave the motor down long enough so everything drains out when I pull it out of the river.

[bturck]

I winterize mine as soon as I know I will be done fishing for the year. The tip on lowering outboard is good. I store mine inside but it is cold storage. Again you don't want water to freeze in the lower unit and blow seals. As prior poster stated he uses boat all winter, but lowers unit for drainage. this weekend should not be an issue, its going to warm up again next week.