Engine

Change the oil at the end of the season and replenish with fresh oil. After use oil's ph balance changes and it becomes slightly acidic; this oil may attack the engine's internals if left in place.

Set up a system so that you can run the engine ashore. Some people create a closed loop using a bucket that can be hung at the level of the exhaust to catch the cooling water. The bucket has a hole in the bottom fitted with a hose that can be jammed into th e raw water intake.

Others use a similar arrangement but attach the hose to the inlet of the water pump.

Do not be tempted to use pressurised water from the mains as this can force it's way past the impeller and end up in the cylinders.

Run the engine to get the oil to it's working temperature. Once this is achieved pour antifreeze into the cooling system and let it run round the system. A mix of equal parts water and antifreeze is generally used. This prevents water in the engine block freezing and also helps prevent corrosion in the engines cooling circuit.

The engine can now be stopped and the oil removed. This can either be done using the sump plug or a suction pump (like the PELA 6000) deployed through the dip stick housing. If using the former method toddlers disposable nappies are a great way of mopping up any oil spills.

Once the new oil is added to the correct level all air intakes should be closed off to prevent moist air entering the engine, condensing and forming pin pricks of corrosion inside the engine. This normally means an oily rag or cling film over the exhaust and air filter.

Lastly, fill the diesel tank as full as possible to prevent condensation and the growth of the "diesel bug" in the fuel tank.