Winterizing question....

[dockofthebay]

So I just finished completely winterizing the bayliner. Its good to go.

On the wellcraft Antigua I needed to take it to the trailer guy for work on raising the bow and adding another set of bunks around the keel. I was able to get the motor drained of water at the manifold, risers and block by pulling all 6 plugs. How ever the motor was ambient temperature. I did not have water access to bring it to thermostat open temp when I drained it. I wont get the trailer back for a week and a half and its going to be very cold soon with freezing likely. Does the thermostat need to be open and warm when draining? Or will the 383 V8 be ok when I get it back and I can finish winterizing it? Yes it will be brought to thermostat open temp to finish winterizing.

[Nauti_Mike]

Since you removed the block plugs all water will drain from it. Did you wiggle a wire or small screw driver in the drain holes to ensure no crud was blocking them holding water back?

The t-stat is at the top of the engine and all water below it should be drained. Since you also drained the manifolds the hoes between them and the t-stat housing should drain the housing. Of course if you are concerned you can pull the hoses and pour in some antifreeze.

[dockofthebay]

Mike I feel all sorts of better. That motor is worth a lot and I would be heart broken if the block cracked. Thank you sir. I did not run anything through the drain lines but just over 4 gallons or so drained out so I think she is good to go.