Boating | Outboard Motor Oil - Part 9

Used Outboard Motors: Good Idea?

When I shop for cars, I prefer to purchase slightly used or “pre-owned” vehicles. A new car loses its value as soon as you drive it off the lot. In my mind, there are only two reasons to purchase new: 1) if you are trying to build credit or 2) there are no quality used vehicles to be found. A friend of mine recently queried me as to whether I would buy a used outboard motor.

This one made me pause for a bit. Truth be told, I have always bought my outboard motors brand new. After considering his question, I concluded that yes, if the motor were in excellent condition, I would not be opposed to purchasing a used outboard. Of course, I would be sure to inspect the motor carefully, clean it, and fill it up with Yamaha outboard oil to ensure a long lifespan.

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Benefits of Yamalube 2S Oil

For years now, I have been a big fan of Yamaha products, especially their line of lubricants for outboard motors. I have taken to using Yamalube 2S two stroke oil. The Yamaha 2S oil uses a technologically advanced semi-synthetic base stock and additive system to ensure high performance all season long.

The Yamaha 2S oil reduces the amount of visible smoke the engine gives off. The lubricant also reduces carbon and varnish deposit buildup, leading to longer engine life. Another aspect of Yamalube 2S oil I greatly appreciate is its ability to work in a range of temperatures, including sub-freezing conditions. Simply put, the oil won’t gel, which makes it great for use in snowmobiles.

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Tools for Yamaha Outboards

For any engine, having the right maintenance tools is a necessity. Yamaha has several specific tools that will keep outboards running in tip top condition. Take for instance, the Yamaha 10-micron fuel and water separating filter. The filter can be used for around 100 hours before needing replacement. The filter is critical to winterization setup.

A multimeter is another important tool to have in your arsenal. It is a device that is used to check electrical connections onboard and identifies problem areas. Though not strictly a tool, lubrication is vital to the function of a Yamaha outboard. Yamaha 4M oil is advisable for four stroke engines, and Yamaha 2M oil is advisable for two stroke engines.

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Evinrude’s Answer to Four Stroke Engines

Four stroke engines are known for their easy start, smooth operation, and fuel economy. Two stroke engines, on the other hand, have in the past been scolded for inconsistencies, bad idling, and too much gas consumption. Evinrude decided to tackle the two stroke flaws and created the Evinrude ETEC engine.

The Evinrude ETEC engine is a direct injection two stroke outboard motor. It is able to idle at lower revolutions per minute and is far quieter than its predecessors. Plus, for the first 300 hours of use, the ETEC does not require maintenance. Once you do hit those 300 hours, be sure to change out the oil with XD1 Evinrude ETEC outboard motor oil.

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Selecting Two Cycle Oil

Two stroke engines, in contrast to four stroke engines, do not have a crankcase. Instead, a two stroke engine needs the proper mixture of oil and gas to function. The two stroke oil is crucial to keeping the engine lubricated so it doesn’t lock up.

It is important when conducting maintenance on a two stroke engine that the correct oil and oil ratio is used. Consult with the owner’s manual to figure out which two cycle oil the engine needs. If you have lost the owners’ manual, then search online or contact an oil wholesaler for their recommendation. You don’t want to ruin your engine with wrong or insufficient oil!

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Testing Synthetic Oil

Synthetic oil is made from synthesized and modified petroleum compounds as opposed to whole crude oil. In extreme temperatures, synthetic oil often works better than traditional oils. To figure out which synthetic oil outboard motor oil is right for your vehicle; spend some time testing different brands. The first step, of course, is to simply check the labels to see what additives are in the oil.

Next, you will want to test the viscosity of the oil by pouring the oil through a funnel into a canister. You’ll want to observe the thickness and flow of the oil. If the synthetic oil meets all of your standards, then you know that you have a winning brand on your hands!

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Winterizing a Boat Part II

Today we continue with information on how to winterize a boat. Winterizing the motor is a crucial step. First, fill the tank with fuel stabilizer and then with marine fuel. Run the motor long enough for the treatment to get into the fuel lines and engine area. The purpose is to keep fuel remnants from ruining the tank.

Next, flush out the cooling systems with a flushing kit. Add in some anti-freeze afterward to prevent ice from damaging the line. Spray the engine with fogging oil that will stick to the cylinders. Also take the opportunity to replace the outboard oil and filters. Give the prop and the rest of the boat one last look over before covering the boat.

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Winterizing a Boat Part I

This past weekend I took the family out to the lake for the last time this summer. The kids are back in school and my wife and I have work, so their just won’t be as much time or good weather to take the boat out. This upcoming weekend I plan on winterizing the boat.

The first thing I’ll do is thoroughly wash and clean the entire boat. I’ll make sure to leave the storage bins open so they don’t collect moisture and mold over during the off-season. Once the boat is completely cleansed, I’ll make a list of repairs that need to be taken care of before the boat is taken out again next season. Tomorrow I’ll address what to do with outboard motor oil.

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Reducing Emissions

According to the NMMA, the two-stroke engine industry wants to reduce emissions containing burnt and unburned oil. To do so, the development of high quality oil that sufficiently lubricates the engine, even at lower oil to gasoline ratio, is a must. It really is a win-win situation as the customer gets a quality product at the industry meets  regulations.

One product that has proven successful is oil TCW-3 Amalie. The trademarked lubricant has evolved through much testing and refinement. Now it sets the standard in the performance-based qualification program. If you’re looking for a more environmentally friendly lubricant, test out TCW-3 Amalie oil.

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Labor Day Weekend Plans

I am both looking forward to and dreading this coming weekend. Monday is Labor Day, which means the whole family will have off from work and school. Being able to spend a three-day weekend with my family is the aspect I’m looking forward to. What I’m not looking forward to is the fact that Labor Day weekend typically signals the end of the summer season.

I’m going to make the most of summer’s last hurrah. The whole family is going to take a trip to the lake for one last time this season. I’m actually checking the level of the Mercury outboard oil tonight to make sure everything is already for tomorrow’s trip. I hope all of our readers have a fantastic long weekend, too!

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Making Smart Business Purchases

A few years ago one of my friends opened up a boat rental business. He lives in a beach community in New Jersey that has a small year round population and a massive summertime crowd. His business is successful, but since most of his business is driven by summer tourists he has to be careful how he spends his money.

One of the ways he saves money is by buying in bulk. For instance, at the start of the summer season, he buys at least one Mercury oil 55 gallon drum. He saves a bundle by buying in bulk and he never has to worry about running out of oil to service his boats.

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Hurricane Irene

I do own a small beach home. Thankfully, Hurricane Irene did not do too much damage to my home; just some debris on the lawn and decks and some minor flooding. It could have been a lot worse, which is why I am glad that I took appropriate precautions.

Before Irene hit, I moved all of my outdoor furniture into the garage and weighted down anything that could not be moved. I brought all of my furniture and possessions from the bottom floor to the top floor. Of course, I made sure to bring my boat out of the water and into the garage, secured the Mercury oil and other flammable liquids in a safe container to avoid leakage. Now that the power is back I can get to cleaning up the yard, move the boat back out to the water, and get ready for Labor Day weekend.

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