outboard winterization

[jawbreaker]

In the past I have always run my boat all year around and have never winterized it. However, this year I want to winterize it and
would like some instructions on what I need to do. I saw the winterization post for inboards but it didn't look like it would apply. I have a 50 hp and 7.5 hp mercury outboard combo. Thanks for the tips :P

Fill the gas tanks so there will be less water accumulation from condesation and add a bottle of fuel stabilizer. Run the OB's at a nearby boatramp for a few minutes and then pull the gas lines off and let them run the gas out of the carburators. Drain as much water from the lines and block that you can if it's going to be stored outside. .... What am I forgetting? Anyone? (You could call Steven's Marine service dept. and they will freely advise you what's needed; westside 503-620-7023 or eastside 503-652-1444). - RT

[Mr. Fisherman]

Jawbreaker,

When I had my outboard I would change all fluids after running the gas out as listed above by RT. There is always a chance that water could be present in your outdrive oil and the only way to be sure that this is not the case is to drain and fill. This was just an anuall service that I conducted on my boat. If water is present in the motor it could/will freeze and expand possibly spliting the housing. That would be far more expensive than changing the oil.

I also pull the plug and raise the bow as high as possible if storing the boat outdoors. I had a mooring cover that kept leafs and debris out. I also used pledge to put a thin layer of wax on the hull (my boat was fiberglass).

Hope this helps,

Mr. F.

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Live to Fish
Fish to Live

[This message has been edited by Mr. Fisherman (edited 11-14-2000).]

[jawbreaker]

Thanks for the information. Much appreciated.

[Trout,myster]

Jawbreaker...don't forget your battery(s). I use Sta-bil (already mentioned) in the tank and run it to make sure it's in the entire system. My batteries are charged all the time with an on-board charger, just need to make sure the water level is good once a month. Otherwise, they recommend pulling the battery or at least disconnecting it and keeping it on a trickle type charger. Make sure you use one for the type of battery you have. Gel cells for example don't always get along with a regular charger. The oil on the lower unit is a good idea to drain and refill. If it has water in it (looks milkey), good time to do a seal and water pump job. Make sure you store the engines in a down position, that will drain any leftover water and keeps the carbs full unless it's fuel injected. Running the gas out is the normal method, but I leave mine full. If the Sta-bil is mixed, it will be fine and there's less chance of the last bit of gas left in the bowls to turn to "varnish". I've also used the foggers in the past, but usually just spray some WD40 into the intakes now. Lastly, at least monthly go turn the motor over a few times. Keeps the rings from forming ridges in the cylinders from sitting.