i have a merc 260 i/o what can i do to keep it from freezing up on me in between weekends of use should i do the antifreeze thing in bettween or any suggestions

Get yourself a block blanket and a 100 watt drop light bulb.

Hey Mega,

Tell me more about this block blanket. I have 5-60 watt light bulbs under my engine box which is fine for cold nights. If the forecast is for below freezing temps for the high of the day I typically drain the block.

I use a small ceramic heater down in the bilge, close to the enine. With this type of heater, there is no spark or flame to cause a problem. These can be purchased at Wal-Mart, K-Mart, etc. They are, usually, thermostat controlled as well.

I think a block blanket can be any old blanket. I have 2 bulbs under my engine, one 200W and a 100W.

yea i neverthought bout that i got a few halogens laying around

I kind of shy'd away from halogen due to how the react to oil. They will not last long if you get oil on them.

In the past I have had good results with a 100W light in the engine compartment (If it is going to sit for a few weeks, I run anti-freeze into the block). However, I have started using the ceramic heater sitting right next to the engine compartment (while open) and have had good results. I have a cockpit cover that keeps the heat in. Whenever I go outside, I check the vents to make sure I have warm air coming out. Around here, it doesn't take much to keep em from freezing. I will probably winterize in Jan sometime.

--Brett

Late Jan, after the cow run is over.

An electric Blanket or one Boaters world sells does the trick.It helps them start with less effort also.