Page 61 - Lady Bass Digital Magazine Classic 2022

Winterization

Part 2: Outboard Motor

Winterizing your engine can be quite expenseive and
for some the most intimidating of everything men-
tioned. Once you have done this a time or two, you
can easily do most of the items necessary. Start by
checking your hoses, bulb and connectors for leaks,
cracks, and deterioration.

If you use fuel containing ethynol, these components
are subject to deterioration on the inside. It is highly
recommended to use a regular fuel treatment to help
protect the entire system. If necessary, replace these.

This is a great time to change the fuel filter and water separator if your motor is equipped.

The next part of the fuel system check is the gas tanks. Gas tanks over
the winter can experience condensation. As such, moisture in the air
can cause a layer of water to form in gas tanks. To avoid this, complete-
ly fill your gas tank and add an adequate fuel stabilizer. This also sets
you up with clean, fresh, fuel come springtime.

It is important to get the fuel stabilizer through the entire system. Do
this by connecting a motor flusher to a water hose and slide it over the
water intake vents on the lower unit. Crank and run the motor for approximately 15 minutes.

To reduce the chances of moisture building up in the engine, spray a fogging agent in the
carburetors until smoke is visible from the exhaust and the motor shuts itself off. In the case of
four stroke engines, remove the spark plugs and apply the fogging agent to the cylinder walls,
spark plugs and pistons. While the spark plugs are out, check them for wear and tear. It is rec-
ommended that spark plugs be changed annually or every 100 hours unless the spark plugs are
fouled. If you are going to replace the plugs, consider keeping the old ones in and replacing
them with properly gapped new ones in the spring.

As with most things, moisture on an engine is not your friend. While the cowling
is off, coat the entire engine body with a silicone anti-corrosion spray.

HIPP’S MARINE

Swww.shippsmarine.com SINCE 1955

Lady Bass Anglers Association 59
Winterization- Part 2: Outboard Motor