question about sta-bil and winterizing...

[beason]

i have a 99 searay with a 3.0l merc. I live in southern Texas, so im not all that concerned with freezing. (i will drain the block if they forecast freezing temps, but its not likely.)

My biggest concern is with the fuel, and specifically with the carbs. I have the tank full, and treated with sta-bil (before the last outing, so its ran through the engine as well)

I had planned on starting the engine and pulling the fuel line so it emptied the carb. This way there would be no fuel to gum it up.

My question is, with the sta-bil in there, is it better to drain the carb or leave the fuel in there. I dont want it to gum up, but i dont want the seals to dry out either. Will the Sta-bil stop the gumming up? will the seals dry out if i drain the carb?

It should only be in there for a few of months. I have some repairs to do, and i plan on running it after those are complete, then by april it should be warming up again.

 

[1980Coronado]

Re: question about sta-bil and winterizing...

No need to drain the carb. You may want to fog the engine if you are not going to use it for an extended period (several months). It only takes 15 minutes to drain that 3.0L.

 

[jimbo_jwc]

Re: question about sta-bil and winterizing...

My 3.0L mercrusier carb will evaporate the gas out after about a month . First carb that I ever had where you can fill float bowl from top for easier startups and less cranking on starter motor . It's a 1987 so i don't know about newer ones are like it . Still has mechanical fuel pump with filter on top. Also use stabil in last 5 gal at a time to fill top off at end of season .

 

[John_S]

Re: question about sta-bil and winterizing...

Murphy says they will predict freezing temps when you are on travel, out of town.

 

[1980Coronado]

Re: question about sta-bil and winterizing...

Murphy says they will predict freezing temps when you are on travel, out of town.

I had the exact same thought...but didn't post it.

 

[jimbo_jwc]

Re: question about sta-bil and winterizing...

3 min on block drain 30 sec's on exhaust manifold with 1/8 " NPT plug removed from thermostat housing . I'm not sure on engine water pump but I did this on my 1987 3.0L MCM last year with no problems . Ohio winters . Havent changed motor oil or Lower unit oil yet , Keeping heater running in boat now for moisture
control for now. Sprayed LPS 2 for rust control on motor. Might be selling Case tractor collection to make room for boat in barn as its more valuable .