Question: I’m getting ready to winterize my 1996 Lakeview with twin 350’s and a Westerbeke generator. Aside from the obvious anti-freeze, oil and filter change, fuel filter, etc., do you have any other tips or suggestions? Submitted by Derek Russner, Royal, Ark.
Warren: Sounds like you have thought of most things to winterize. When I winterize I like to check hoses, hose clamps, fittings, spark plugs wires, etc. Make a list for the spring of anything you notice that might need attention when de-winterizing. Don’t forget to check the fluid levels on your batteries as well.
Question: We’ve got four dry exhausts and the boat can get a bit loud at the back. Is there any cost-effective way to quiet down a loud exhaust on a Gibson houseboat? Submitted by Connie and Jason Winters, Aspen, Colo.
Warren: There are several different styles of mufflers available that you could install on your Gibson houseboat. Contact a dealer for the type of engine you have. They should be able to point you in the right direction.
Question: Should my V-drives be hot to the touch after running my houseboat for a while? As in, so hot that it burns my hand? Both drives seem to get really hot when running. The fluid level is fine on both; however, I suspect I may be burning up the clutch. I don’t think I feel any slipping, but I am not sure how that would actually feel. What are your thoughts? Submitted by Peter Kreishner, Wickliffe, Ind.
Warren: Depending on how hard you have run the boat, the transmissions will get hot enough to burn your hand. With both transmissions being roughly the same temperature and as long as you are not hearing any noises, I wouldn’t suspect it being anything wrong. If you do suspect a problem, there are coolers on the transmissions that you will want to check. If you have any doubts, it may be a good idea to call in a good mechanic. A few hundred dollars to check them is a small price for peace of mind.
If you have a question about houseboating, shoot Warren an email at warren@houseboatmagazine.com.