What You Can Do to Extend the Life of Your Outboard Motor

Even old, worn-out motors can enjoy a long, full life if they are properly maintained. There are several ways to extend the life of your motor. CALONGLORIA discusses various measures that can be taken to maximize the lifespan of your outboard motor. Some of these include winterizing, regular maintenance, proper fuel mixtures, and proper storage, among others.

Winterizing
Just like your boat needs to be winterized, your outboard motor needs to be winterized as well. Without freeze protection, the cold weather will usually cause any water left inside the motor to freeze, potentially damaging motor components.

Consult your motor owner's manual for a list of freeze protection instructions. To winterize your motor, you will need the following items:

Spray can of spray oil
Fuel stabilizer or fuel fungicide
Non-toxic propylene glycol antifreeze

What You Can Do to Extend the Life of Your Outboard Motor
Steps to Take
Fresh Water Flush: Use the flush attachment to flush your motor with fresh water. This will help remove dirt and residue from the motor.

Empty Fuel Lines: While the engine is still running, disconnect the fuel lines from the engine. This will prevent contaminants from clogging the lines, nozzles, or injectors.

Fogging the Carburetor Inlet: Fogging involves spraying fuel into the carburetor before the engine runs out of fuel. This fogging oil prevents corrosion on the motor's internal surfaces.

Drain the Cooling Passages: Remove the flush attachment and drain all water from the motor's cooling system.

Drain and Refill Gearboxes: Use the lubricant specified in the owner's manual and refill the gearbox with oil to prevent condensation inside.

Repair Damaged Paint: If the paint is dirty or damaged, use anti-corrosion spray to repair it.

Clean and Lubricate the Propeller Shaft: Take advantage of winter to repair the propeller and other parts of the motor.

Store Upright: Always store the motor upright. If stored flat or on its side, water may accumulate in areas where antifreeze should not be present.

Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is crucial to extending the life of your motor. Keeping up with maintenance reduces the likelihood of major problems down the road.

After flushing the engine, disconnect the fuel line and let the engine run to burn any remaining fuel in the carburetor.
Once flushing is complete and the fuel line is disconnected, turn off the motor. If your motor has a battery switch, turn it off as well.
Remove the engine hood and check for cracks, fuel leaks, or water leaks. If you find any issues, contact a boating mechanic as soon as possible.
After a day on the ocean or lake, wipe down the motor to remove any dirt or residue.
Replace the engine fairing and wipe it down. It is a good idea to buy a cover to protect the outboard motor when not in use.
Lastly, never reuse fuel. Always use fresh fuel.

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