Semi-winterize???

[whosmatt]

for those of us who have the option of taking our boats out on the warmer winter days, what precautions would you recommend for the times in between? <br /><br />I keep my motor on my boat under a cover, the LU fluid looks like it did when it went in, so no water or freezing worries there. <br /><br />I make sure the motor drains completely by storing it in the down position.<br /><br />I have fuel stabilizer in my gas.<br /><br />Anything else you can think of? I doubt that I will go more than 4-6 weeks between outings, usually less than that. Should I start the motor on the muffs every so often?<br /><br />thanks!

 

[Waterbugtoo]

Re: Semi-winterize???

As long as you keep stabilizer in the tank, and you lower motor after use to allow all water to drain down, you shouldnt have any problems.

 

[BR549]

Re: Semi-winterize???

Looks like you have it covered - the only thing I would add would be to either take out the batteries in the event of a hard freeze ( low teens), or keep them plugged in to a quality automatic charger. I have easy access and quick disconnects so it's easier for me to yank them out before I put the cover on.

 

[rons boat]

Re: Semi-winterize???

I think you do have it covered except for one thing. Always run all gas out the carb before removing from the water.

 

[whosmatt]

Re: Semi-winterize???

thanks everyone, no worries about batteries, she's rope start tiller steer.<br /><br />i have heard that running all the gas out of the carb is a no-no for 2 stroke motors as it leaves the cylinder walls void of lubrication, anyone care to comment?

 

[boatneck]

Re: Semi-winterize???

whosmatt, I, too, am out there if the weather warms up and I do like you do. I also run the gas out each time by disconnecting the fuel line. No gas, no oil, no problem since no gas means it stops running. I've had problems with gunk in the carbs so that's why I do itthat way. Since I run in salt water, the motor is also flushed after each use.

 

[rolmops]

Re: Semi-winterize???

Hello.<br />It is a good idea to empty the carburator so no gasoline turns into gunk gooping up your carburator.(This includes the bowl)<br />I would run 1-32 or even 1-24 mix so you do not have to fog the engine every time you put it away.<br />Happy New Year.

 

[whosmatt]

Re: Semi-winterize???

boatneck,<br /><br />i guess my concern lies more with corrosion than lack of lubricant, since, like you said, the motor doesn't run. but if it sits there for 6 weeks, i'd like to have some residual oil on the cylider walls to prevent rust. in actuality, i doubt that i would leave it for 6 weeks but one never knows what may happen. <br /><br />thoughts?<br /><br />PS HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL!!!!!

 

[rons boat]

Re: Semi-winterize???

Leaving todays fuel in a carb will certainly cause problems. Leaving gas and oil in the carb would not lube the cylinder anyway. If you want to store an engine for a long while it is recommended that you fog the engine. I haven't in 40 years and have not had a problem. If your still worried fog the cylinder thru the spark plug hole.