running I/O when cold

vroom ZOOM

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Aug 15, 2017
Messages
427
Hello, I have a dumb question.

Wasn't really expecting to sell my boat, but I decided to throw it out there for sale anyways. Well what do you know, people started fighting over it, despite it being wintertime. One guy wants me to run the engine on the trailer, and then he will take it as is. I offered for him to give a deposit and wait till he can drive it and so I can get everything going, but no, he wants it now. is it safe to run the motor below freezing on the trailer? Highest it ever gets nowadays is 20, at night it gets to 0. If I drain the water right after running it should be ok? I'm more concerned about that cold impeller, will it get messed up? And the engine oil, it is only really for summer use (merc 25w40)? any points appreciated. Motor is a 2000 3.0 (which is why I am selling it) Thanks
 

Bondo

Moderator
Staff member
Joined
Apr 17, 2002
Messages
71,110
Hello, I have a dumb question.

Wasn't really expecting to sell my boat, but I decided to throw it out there for sale anyways. Well what do you know, people started fighting over it, despite it being wintertime. One guy wants me to run the engine on the trailer, and then he will take it as is. I offered for him to give a deposit and wait till he can drive it and so I can get everything going, but no, he wants it now. is it safe to run the motor below freezing on the trailer? Highest it ever gets nowadays is 20, at night it gets to 0. If I drain the water right after running it should be ok? I'm more concerned about that cold impeller, will it get messed up? And the engine oil, it is only really for summer use (merc 25w40)? any points appreciated. Motor is a 2000 3.0 (which is why I am selling it) Thanks

Ayuh,.... If you drain it at shut down,....

No problem,......
 

Rick Stephens

Admiral
Joined
Aug 13, 2013
Messages
6,118
I run mine during freezing times occasionally. I then immediately pull all the plugs and the water pump hose off at the bottom. Dry motors don't freeze. Make sure the drive is down and the little drain holes are open as well.
 

Scott Danforth

Grumpy Vintage Moderator still playing with boats
Staff member
Joined
Jul 23, 2011
Messages
50,338
hook up the muffs, fire it up...... then drain....... and sell the boat.
 
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