Did you winterize your outboard ?
While we traditionally talk about how to winterize your boat motor, it is important to remember that your outboard engine needs some attention at the end of the season. You may be thinking it’s a bit early to be writing about winterizing and you would be correct, however, we do remind our faithful blog readers to winterize throughout the fall season. Follow us on Facebook or Twitter so you don’t miss our free boat engine tips and advice each week. We will remind you to winterize your boat engine.
If you have already winterized your boat yourself or from professional winterization service provider like us then it’s well and good, but if you forget to winterize your boat you can see these common problems in your boat.
Problems if You Forgot to Winterize Your Outboard
If you didn’t winterize your outboard engine before storing it for the off-season, there are some clear signs that trouble may be brewing. Here’s what to watch for when you get your boat ready for the next season:
Difficulty Starting the Engine
One of the most common signs is trouble starting your outboard. Residual water that froze and thawed during the winter could have caused internal damage, while degraded fuel or clogged injectors can make starting the engine a frustrating process. If the engine takes longer than usual to turn over or doesn’t start at all, it may be due to skipped winterization.
Rust or Corrosion
Rust or corrosion is a clear indicator of moisture exposure. If the engine wasn’t fogged or properly drained, internal components like pistons, valves, and bearings could have corroded during storage. Externally, you might notice rust on fittings, bolts, or the propeller shaft, which could also signal trouble inside the engine.
Strange Noises or Reduced Performance
When you finally get the engine started, pay attention to how it runs. Unusual knocking, grinding, or sputtering noises can indicate internal rust, fuel clogs, or damage caused by frozen water. If the engine struggles to reach its normal performance level, it’s likely dealing with the aftermath of insufficient winter preparation.
Water Contamination
If you find water in the lower unit or mixed with your engine oil, this could be due to seals that were compromised by freezing temperatures. Water contamination can lead to serious damage over time, including gear failure and corrosion of internal components.
Fuel System Issues
Fuel left untreated during the winter can degrade and form gum or varnish deposits, clogging carburetors, injectors, and fuel lines. Ethanol-blended fuel can also absorb moisture, leading to phase separation where water settles at the bottom of the fuel tank. These issues often result in poor engine performance, stalling, or failure to start.
Visible Cracks or Leaks
Inspect your engine carefully for any visible cracks in the casing or signs of fluid leaks. These can occur if water left in the cooling system or engine block froze and expanded during the winter months. Cracks and leaks are often expensive to repair and can severely impact your engine’s performance.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s essential to address them promptly. Performing a thorough inspection or taking your outboard to a professional mechanic can help identify and fix any issues before they become major problems. Skipping winterization may cause headaches, but quick action can minimize the damage and get you back on the water sooner.
Don’t let winter catch you unprepared—take the necessary steps today and enjoy worry-free boating for years to come! For expert help, contact us or you can directly call us for fast and efficient winterization services.
