Winterization Done Right: Why Central Maine Boaters Trust Clark Marine


Winterization Done Right: Why Central Maine Boaters Trust Clark Marine



Winter in Maine is no joke—and neither is preparing your boat for it. At Clark Marine, we believe winterization is more than draining fluids and throwing on a cover. It’s about protecting your investment, preventing costly repairs, and giving you peace of mind that when spring returns, your boat is ready to launch.


Here’s how our team goes above and beyond to deliver the most thorough, reliable winterization in central Maine.


OEM Parts & Fluids, Every Time

We follow manufacturer recommendations down to the smallest detail:

  • Honda engines get Honda filters and oils.
  • Mercury engines get Mercury filters and oils.
  • Yamaha engines get Yamaha filters and oils.
  • Suzuki engines get Suzuki filters and oils.

No shortcuts. No mismatched substitutes. Unless there’s a rare national backorder, every boat leaves our shop with the exact parts and fluids it was designed for.


The Clark Marine 38-Point Check

Winterization here is not just “pickle the engine and park it.” Every boat we service receives a comprehensive 38-point inspection covering:

  • Structural integrity – Pontoons vibrate and shift, so we recheck bolts, steering components, and engine pod fasteners. Something as small as a loose bolt can lead to major damage.
  • Trailer condition – Bearings, jacks, couplers, winches, lights, and tires. (Did you know trailer tires typically expire after seven years—even if the tread looks fine?)
  • Core systems – Steering, throttle controls, charging, starting, and cooling. With today’s four-stroke engines, a severe overheat can destroy an aluminum block. Catching issues early saves thousands.
  • Electrical functions – If a switch doesn’t trigger what it should, we note it. That way you can decide whether you’d like us to repair it.


Our process isn’t just about preserving your boat for winter—it’s about setting you up for success in spring.


Repair vs. Replace: Honest Conversations

Sometimes a repair just doesn’t make financial sense. For example:

  • A $2,000 trim repair on a boat worth $6,000.

In those cases, we’ll talk through whether it’s smarter to repair or consider upgrading while your boat still holds value. Our goal is to save you money in the long run—not push you into unnecessary repairs.


Trained Technicians, Consistent Standards

Every technician at Clark Marine is trained before working independently, and junior techs always work under senior supervision. That consistency ensures that whether you’ve trusted us for years or it’s your first season with us, your boat gets the same level of care.


The Bottom Line

Winterization isn’t a place to cut corners. Some shops may offer a cheaper “quick service,” but that often means skipped steps, universal products, and surprise repair bills come spring.

At Clark Marine, we do it right:

  • OEM parts and fluids
  • A 38-point inspection
  • Honest repair vs. replace conversations

So when the ice melts and the docks go back in, you can get back on the water with confidence.

📞 Call us at 207-622-7011 today to schedule your winterization and storage with Clark Marine—the central Maine dealer boaters trust.