How To Winterize Your Outboard Motors For The Winter
If you have ever owned any boats with Outboard Motors, you know how important the proper maintenance and upkeep is when it comes to your boat’s performance. You should have a boat maintenance checklist of things that need to be done and at what intervals.
Now is the time to start thinking about winterizing your boat. Don’t get caught off guard by an early cold snap that could destroy your motor. Get all your supplies ready and know exactly what you need to do before that day comes.
The Tools & Materials You Will Need
- the owner’s manual
- a freshwater flushing unit
- a hose
- a screwdriver
- a wrench
- an empty container
- a tarp
- some scrap wood
- some marine fuel conditioner
- marine rust-preventive oil
- lower unit marine lubricant
- old rags
- nuts and bolts (only as needed)
Always read the owner’s manual before you begin and only use their specified recommendations for the lubricants and replacement parts; otherwise, you could void the warranty.
The Steps For Winterizing Your Boat And Outboard Motor
1. Fill up the gas tank until it’s almost full. You should leave just enough room for the gas to expand. Then add some marine fuel stabilizer to keep the gas from breaking down over the winter.
2. Close the fuel valves to help avoid condensation on the inside of the tank.
3. Run the motor with the ears on to give the fuel stabilizer time to work through the system.
4. Spray some fogging oil into the air intakes while the motor is running and keep it running until the motor chokes out.
5. Now lower the motor and allow all the water to drain out.
6. Take the spark plugs out.
7. Use the fogging oil to spray the insides of the holes for a few seconds.
8. Use your hand to spin the fly wheel then put the spark plugs back in.
9. Put a pan under the motor and take out the screw on the bottom of the lower unit.
10. Now remove the vent screw and the oil will begin draining out.
11. Once all the old oil has drained out, put the pump that has the new oil on the bottom screw hole.
12. Keep pumping the oil until it comes out of the vent hole.
13. Put the vent hole screw back in.
14. Remove the pump and quickly re-install the bottom screw.
15. If your outboard is a four stroke, you should also change the filter.
That’s it, your done! You have just successfully prepared your boat for the winter.
If you would like more information or have any questions about preparing your boat and your outboard motor for the winter please feel free to contact us. We would be happy to assist you in any way we can.