Many outboard owners believe that the best way to protect their boat in the winter is to simply use it, which makes sense as it is not the low temperatures that cause problems for the outboard, but the winter period “inactivity,” imposed by the weather conditions.  So if you live in an area where you can start your boat engine every few weeks (allowing it to reach its normal operating temperature) you usually do not need to do anything extra for the Winter.

How to prepare your motor/engine for Winter!

Consult your manufacturer’s manual. Each manufacturer’s method is different (different models require different steps).

Outboards are designed to completely drain water from their cooling systems when lowering the motor all the way down. You just have to lower your motor all the way down with the boat level on its trailer and leave it there.

The outboard motor covers is also a good idea (but make sure there is enough ventilation so that no moisture builds up inside it).

It is advisable to protect the inside of the motor against corrosion (by spraying it with a suitable protection spray).

Tip:

This season is the best time to get your motor ready for next summer.

Remember, as with all services, service is more efficient during periods of lower workload.

Checks (and Replacement) during winter maintenance!

• Parts, proper operation
• Water pump (impeller replacement if required)
• Electric or mechanical fuel pumps (membrane replacement)
• Anodes (replacement)
• Fuel tank & piping
• Fuel filters (replacement)
• Air filter (replacement)
• Thermostats
• Belt (check-replacement)
• Spark plug (check-replacement)
• Battery & terminals
• Oil tank & piping
• Power Trim oil level
• Replacement of oils and filter in the engine
• Reverse water-tightness (reversible valve replacement)
• Steering System, Control (control-adjustment)
• Water pressure valve (membrane replacement)

 

For extra protection !!

• Lubrication of lubrication points
• Exterior outboard engine cleaning
• ECM data recording
• Cylinder compression recording
• Storage preparation
• Maintenance entry