Carry out some simple narrowboat engine maintenance
If you're nervous about leaving a full tank of diesel idle over the winter, as it may be a tempting target for thieves, ensure your engine has a water filter - this'll keep water out of the fuel line.
There are two types of diesel engine; air cooled and water cooled. Air cooled engines will not suffer ice problems, however water cooled ones will if not properly treated. Ensure the right amount of anti-freeze is in the water cooling system (if closed or keel cooling). If you have a raw water system, seal off the cock valve and if the engine is not to be used, drain the water out of the cooling jacket.
And don't forget to change the oil filters in the spring when the engine is serviced. Spray terminals with a silicone-free lubricant and grease all available grease points on the engine and drive, plus electrical connectors. Also lubricate linkages and gear/throttle slides.
Grease the stern tube once the engine is off - a vital link between propeller and engine. If not greased, water may dribble into the engine room, which over a long period of time can build up and cause your narrowboat to sink. As the boat gets lower in the water, any outlets such as those for a shower, sink or air vent, will get nearer to the water level and the result can be catastrophic. Grease the stern tube every time you turn off the engine as once the propeller turns, the seal is broken.
It's also a good idea to run the engine for an hour every month- this pushes oil around the engine and prevents rusting, plus it tops up the battery if left running long enough.