Boat Maintenance: Four Critical Tips for Protecting Your Outboard Motor

Outboard boat motors are durable and will perform exceptionally for a long time. However, if the component is not maintained correctly, premature failure can occur. Therefore, if you have invested in this type of engine for your vessel, you should make time for proper outboard motor service. The right care practices will prolong the lifespan of the motor, minimise incidences of failure and reduce the total operational costs. Here are crucial tips to help you keep your outboard motor in good condition.

Flush the Motor

You should flush the outboard motor after use. This practice is particularly essential if you were boating on marine water. Some of the newer outboard engines on the market have an in-built flushing feature. Therefore, you will only need to follow your manual to flush the engine correctly. Alternatively, you can use a hose to flush the engine while the motor is on idle. If you are uncertain about the correct process, you should check the manufacturer's instructions or consult a serviceperson.

Replace the Fuel Lines

You should check the condition of your fuel lines on a regular basis. Then, you should make replacements as necessary to ensure that your outboard engine performs exceptionally and for a prolonged period. In general, you should inspect the fuel lines for cracks and cuts which could compromise performance. Also, you should determine if there is deterioration due to UV exposure. If the condition of the lines is poor, you should perform immediate replacements.

Inspect the Engine

You should take some time to open up the engine cover and check the status of the internal components. Often, problems in outboard motors are left unresolved because boat owners do not make time for thorough check-ups. During the inspection, you should look for signs of corrosion, loose part covers and detached fasteners. Also, you should ensure that there are no oil or fluid leaks in the engine. If there are anomalies, you should hire a technician for immediate repairs.

Shut Down Correctly

If you are planning on storing your boat for some time without use, you should not just shut down the outboard motor. Instead, you should disconnect the fuel hose. Then, allow your motor to utilise all the fuel remaining in your carburettor. This process will ensure that old oil will not remain in the motor for weeks or months. Remember, fuel does not have an unlimited lifespan. If the material spoils while in the carburettor, it will cause problems such as internal clogging in the motor.

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