As February winds down in Southwest Missouri, the itch to get back out on the water or hit the open road starts to set in. While we still have a few chilly nights ahead, the transition from winter storage to spring adventure is officially here. If you’ve been keeping your boat or RV in one of our covered or outdoor spaces at Neighborhood Storage, now is the perfect time to start your “de-winterization” checklist so you aren’t stuck in the driveway when the first 70-degree Saturday hits.
Moving a vehicle out of storage is about more than just turning the key. Missouri’s winter freeze-thaw cycles can be tough on seals, batteries, and tires. Taking a few proactive steps today ensures that your first trip to Table Rock Lake or a weekend getaway to the Ozarks goes off without a hitch.
Inspecting the Exterior and Tires
Before you pull out of your unit, give the exterior a thorough once-over. Check the roof and sidewall seals on your RV or the hull of your boat for any signs of cracking or moisture intrusion. Winter air is notorious for sapping tire pressure, so don’t assume they are ready for the highway. Check the PSI on every tire—including the spare—and look for any signs of dry rot or flat-spotting that may have occurred while sitting.
If you utilize our covered storage options, your vehicle has had a great layer of protection against the Missouri snow and sleet, but it still pays to wash off any settled dust or road salt from late-fall trips. A clean exterior makes it much easier to spot small issues before they become expensive repairs.
Reactivating Your Water and Fuel Systems
If you used antifreeze to winterize your plumbing, flushing the system is your top priority. You’ll want to run fresh water through all the lines until the tell-tale pink tint is completely gone. For RV owners, this is also the time to sanitize your freshwater tank and check your water heater bypass valves.
For boats, check your fuel lines for any brittleness or cracks. If you didn’t add a fuel stabilizer back in November, you may want to inspect the fuel for water contamination. It’s much better to find a clogged filter or a leaky hose while you’re still at our facility on Newman Road than when you’re at the boat ramp with a line of people waiting behind you.
Battery Health and Electrical Checks
Batteries naturally lose their charge over time, especially in the cold. If you didn’t have yours on a maintainer, it likely needs a deep charge. Clean any corrosion off the terminals and ensure all connections are tight. Once you have power, test your lights, slide-outs, and bilge pumps.
At Neighborhood Storage, our 24/7 access means you can come by whenever it fits your schedule to tinker with these systems. Whether you want to spend a Tuesday evening checking your electronics or a Sunday morning lubricating your RV’s stabilizer jacks, our fully lighted and secure facility makes it easy to work at your own pace.
Ready to Secure Your Spot for the Season?
If you’re currently looking for a new “home base” for your gear, we offer brand new, secure units right off Highway 249. With no long-term contracts and an easy online rental process, getting your boat or RV into a safe spot is simpler than ever.
View our available Boat and RV storage units here and let’s get you ready for a great Missouri spring!