Draining block - Leave open or closed

[kvand347]

I normally drain water (pull all plugs), then run 4-5 gallons antifreeze through it after pulling thermostat, then pull all plugs again, clean bilge, remove all water, clean etc. and leave plugs out block drained until spring. Paranoid maybe but it makes me feel safe.

I guess I still don't understand why some people pull plugs after filling with anti-freeze?? Are you worried that it will freeze/expand? Just wondering because mine is sitting with antifreeze in it right now and was not planning on draining it. Aren't you asking for corrosion when draining the block and leaving it open since there is no anti-freezef left (over very little)?

This year I think I'll be pushing past when we get freezing temps at night. What do I do with boat stored outside covered up? Not worry abotu a dip below freezing overnight and do nothing? Run it to temp at sunset and leave it to stay warm overnight? Drain block after every use? Drain block and pull all hoses for raw water pump and heater? I don't know? Don't want issues from freezing but being as I want to push this season it makes it difficult not having heated storage before I winterize.

At minimum I would pull the block plugs. I figure a cracked block is more expensive than exhaust manifold/hoses...

I've heard some people will leave a space heater or tap light on in the engine bay...not sure how much a light bulb will do for warmth on a cold night. Space heater sounds dangerous with gas lines so close.