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how to winterize an outboard motor
To winterize an outboard motor, you must stabilize the fuel, flush the cooling system, and add antifreeze if applicable. You also need to change the engine oil and oil filter (for 4-stroke engines) and gear oil in the lower unit. Finally, remove and properly store the battery and fog the engine to prevent corrosion during storage.
This video demonstrates the process of stabilizing the fuel and flushing the cooling system:
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1. Stabilize the Fuel
- Add fuel stabilizer:Dose the fuel tank with an appropriate amount of fuel stabilizer to prevent the formation of gum and varnish that can clog fuel lines and carburetors.
- Run the engine:Run the engine for 5 to 10 minutes to circulate the stabilized fuel throughout the entire fuel system, including the fuel filter, fuel lines, and carburetors.
2. Flush and Antifreeze
- Flush the cooling system:Flush the engine with freshwater for about 10 minutes using a flushing attachment or by running the motor in a tank of clean water to remove salt, sediment, and contaminants.
- Use antifreeze:For extra protection, run antifreeze through the cooling system.
This video explains the importance of draining water from the motor and suggests how to do it:
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3. Change Engine Oil (4-stroke motors)
- Change the oil and filter:For 4-stroke engines, drain the old engine oil and replace the oil filter.
- Add new oil:Fill the crankcase with the recommended type and amount of new engine oil.
4. Change Gearcase Oil
- Drain and refill:Drain the old gear oil from the lower unit and refill it with new gear oil, replacing the seals on the drain plugs.
5. Fog the Engine
- Spray fogging oil:Spray fogging oil into the carburetor intakes or directly into the cylinders (after removing spark plugs) to provide lubrication and protect internal engine parts from corrosion.
This video shows how to fog the engine for winterization:
YouTube• New England Boating & Fishing [ BOATING LOCAL ]
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6. Service the Battery
- Remove the battery:Disconnect and remove the battery to prevent it from freezing and to better maintain its charge.
- Store and charge:Store the battery in a cool, dry place, and use a trickle charger to periodically maintain its charge over the winter.
7. Store the Motor
- Lubricate:Grease all lubricated fittings and spray rust inhibitor on exposed metal parts.
- Cover the motor:Cover the engine with a high-quality, breathable cover to protect it from dust and moisture.
- Store upright:Store the motor in its upright, “trim-down” position so that any water remaining in the engine can self-drain and not freeze, which can cause damage.
