Shutting down the motor?

[springbok]

I've heard people say that when <br />you are shuting your motor off <br />for the day you should disconnect your<br />fuel line and let the motor run out<br />of gas. I just bought a used boat and 6hp <br />Mercury motor.....should I be doing this?<br /><br />Thanks

 

[dakk1]

Re: Shutting down the motor?

springbok<br /><br />You are going to get differing opinions on this. Those who say yea will argue running the gas out of the carbs will keep gas from turning to varnish in your carbs. <br />Those that say nay will argue that you don't want to run the gas, and more importantly oil, out of your cylinders.<br />As one who has had a ring stick due to rust in a cylinder in a short period of time, I will be a nay.

 

[Joe Reeves]

Re: Shutting down the motor?

Springbok.... You can do that as long as the engine has but one carburetor. When that carb rubs out of fuel, the engine simply stops running. Cuts down on the gas spillage in the trunk of your new BMW.<br /><br />However, when the engine has more than one carburetor, that practice should not be carried out. The reasoning not to do that is simply that the top carburetor will run out of fuel first, if for no other reason, gravity.<br /><br />This will result in having at least one aluminum piston running up and down a steel cylinder wall with improper or no lubrication. Really not a good idea.

 

[TELMANMN]

Re: Shutting down the motor?

If for a short time of period(a month or so) I woudn't worry about it. If it is the last time for the season(approx. Nov. here in Minni.) then I would pull fuel hose and run dry as you will be fogging the engine(I hope) to keep rust from cylinders, rings, etc.. Also at that time make sure a stabilizer is added to gas so that once run dry any fuel left will have a fighting chance. <br /> It is also a good idea to put sea foam into the tank occasionally during your use(not everytime) to help any fuel left in the carbs. during the season, to keep them clean. A few dollars used ahead of time may keep big bucks from occurring later. Enjoy.