Montana’s winters are nothing short of legendary—subzero temperatures, heavy snowfall, and biting winds are to be expected. While this winter wonderland is beautiful, it’s also unforgiving, especially for your boat or RV. Without proper preparation and storage, these valuable vehicles can suffer significant damage, from cracked engines to ruined interiors.
Unfortunately, many boat and RV owners unknowingly make mistakes when prepping for winter storage, leaving their investments vulnerable to the harsh elements. The good news? With the right knowledge, these pitfalls are entirely avoidable.
In this post, we’ll explore five common mistakes people make when storing their boats or RVs during Montana’s harsh winters—and how you can avoid them to keep your vehicle safe and ready for adventure come spring.
Mistake #1: Skipping Proper Cleaning Before Storage
One of the most overlooked steps in preparing your boat or RV for winter storage is thoroughly cleaning it inside and out. Dirt, grime, salt, and other residues left on the exterior can lead to corrosion or paint damage, especially during Montana’s long, wet winters.
Meanwhile, food crumbs, spills, or moisture inside can attract pests and create the perfect environment for mold and mildew to thrive. Before storing your vehicle, take the time to wash and wax the exterior, clean the interior surfaces, and vacuum upholstery and carpets. Don’t forget to remove any perishable items and use a mold-prevention spray to keep your boat or RV fresh and protected until spring.
Mistake #2: Neglecting to Winterize the Engine and Fluids
Failing to winterize your boat or RV’s engine and fluid systems is a mistake that can lead to costly damage during freezing winters. Water left in pipes, tanks, or the engine can freeze and expand, causing cracks, leaks, or even total engine failure. Additionally, old oil and fluids can corrode internal components over time.
To prevent this, drain all water from the system and replace it with non-toxic RV or marine antifreeze. Change the oil and filters to remove contaminants that could harm the engine during storage.
Mistake #3: Overlooking the Battery
Batteries are often forgotten when preparing a boat or RV for storage. Freezing temperatures can cause batteries to discharge rapidly, and if left connected, parasitic drains from the vehicle’s electrical systems can deplete them even faster. To avoid this, disconnect the battery and store it in a warm, dry place. Alternatively, invest in a trickle charger to maintain the battery’s charge throughout the winter. These simple steps can extend your battery’s lifespan and ensure your vehicle is ready to start when the snow melts.
Mistake #4: Ignoring Tire and Wheel Care
Your tires bear the weight of your boat or RV all year long, and prolonged storage without proper care can lead to flat spots, cracking, or dry rot. Inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI to prevent flattening. If your vehicle will be stored outdoors, which we don’t recommend, use tire covers to protect them from UV rays and weather exposure. For longer-term storage, consider using jack stands to take pressure off the tires entirely. Proper tire care during winter storage will save you from unexpected replacements and ensure a smooth ride come spring.
Mistake #5: Choosing the Wrong Storage Facility
Not all storage facilities are created equal, and choosing the wrong one can leave your boat or RV exposed to significant risks, including theft, rodents, moisture damage, and extreme temperatures. Winters demand a facility that offers secure, indoor storage with climate control to protect your vehicle from the elements.
Look for features like surveillance cameras, gated access, and pest control measures to ensure your investment is safe. Outdoor storage might seem like a budget-friendly option, but the exposure to snow, ice, and freezing temperatures can lead to costly repairs.
Looking for Reliable Winter Storage?
Properly storing your boat or RV for the winter is essential to protecting your investment, especially in Montana’s unforgiving climate. By avoiding these common mistakes—like skipping a thorough cleaning, neglecting to winterize, overlooking the battery, ignoring tire care, or choosing the wrong storage facility—you can ensure your vehicle remains safe and ready for adventure when spring arrives.If you’re in Montana, there’s no better place to store your boat or RV than Jewel Basin Storage. We offer secure, climate-controlled storage solutions designed to protect your vehicle from the harsh elements. Plus, we care about more than just storage—we also provide maintenance and other services to keep your boat or RV in peak condition. Contact us today to reserve your space or learn more about how we can help you protect your investment this winter!