Everyday Outboard Maintenance

Today we turn to a boating topic that’s often overlooked but cannot be understated – that of regular outboard maintenance. Most boat owners take the process of winterizing their boats quite seriously at the end of the season, but it’s easy to forget about the little things that should be done after each trip. By going over these simple steps every time you return to shore, you can help prolong the life of your outboard engine.

Before you do anything else, take a moment to flush out the engine. Some people claim that this step isn’t as important for freshwater boating, but it should be done in saltwater and freshwater as well. During the flushing process, keep an eye on the water pump to guarantee good water flow. Check the water temperature as it leaves the pump; it should still be warm. Weak flow suggests a blockage in the outflow tube.

Next, disengage the fuel line and burn off all the fuel in the carburetor. Turn the battery switch off and begin looking beneath the engine cowling for leaks. Lubricate the cables and carburetor valves, put the cowling back in place and then replenish your tank with Yamalube 2m oil or some similar high-quality outboard oil. Once you’ve completed this routine checklist, you can rest assured that your motor and fuel system are prepped for the next trip.