Long term storage

[La-Z-Buoy]

Hi folks. Just poking around the boat/trailer and was wondering if there is any value of removing/releasing the stern straps and winch strap thus releasing the tension on those points? Personally I've never done it but was wondering if anyone did and to what purpose. I can see taking the stern straps inside in wet/freezing conditions for preservation but otherwise?? It is getting to storage season for sure. One point that I always stress - if your boat is stored outdoors in conditions that freeze always/always store motor in the down position. Can't stress that enough.

[Nanserbe]

Can't hurt!

I don't think I've seen anything specific about Arima's having this issue but other boats can get an outward "dimple" at these points.

[croaker stroker]

I do it. Like Nanserbe said "can't hurt"

At the least, it might extend the life of the straps. 

[davidsea]

 

 I pull the tiedowns and the winch strap off the winch as well, although I leave the safety chain on the bow eye - the boat is tilted up so it fully drains if the cover leaks, and my nightmare scenario is that a mild earthquake could send the boat down the rollers until the fully-down lower unit stops it...    Everything comes out of the boat, including the batteries and cuddy cushions, and I run a small dehumidifier inside under the hardtop every week or so.  Maybe over-cautious, but no issues in the spring.

[Yachter Yat]

   Loosen the tension a bit on your winch line after every outing. Many years ago, while walking through a boat yard, I was shocked to see the bow eye of one trailer boat had been partially pulled out of the hull.  I'll never forget it; there was still tension on the cable.   

Yat