To winterize or not

[ali'i]

I have a 2000, 50hp Evinrude, with fuel injection. Depending on the weather, the tides, and my schedule, I may or may not get to go out fishing during the winter, so I don't really want to "winterize" only to find out that it was a waste of time and money because I do get to use it, so wondering if instead of doing the usual winterizing procedures, does anybody see a problem with just starting it maybe once a month and running for maybe 5 minutes with fresh gas. After all, that's about how often I use it during the rest of the year, and never have a problem. The boat is stored outside, but under cover, and since I am on southern Vancouver Island, we get more days above freezing than below. Thanks

 

[ihearth2o]

You seen this thread?

http://forums.iboats.com/forum/engi...s/8511318-winterize-vs-starting-up-all-winter

 

[Chris1956]

Your plan should work fine. I would add fuel stabilizer, grease the fittings and change the gear oil, before winter sets in. When you change the gear oil, you will be able to see if it has water in it. If it has water, be careful about using it over the winter, as more water could get into the gearcase and crack it. Also. make sure you store the motor with the gearcase down, so any water will drain out, before freezing.

 

[firstcatch]

Your plan should work fine. I would add fuel stabilizer, grease the fittings and change the gear oil, before winter sets in. When you change the gear oil, you will be able to see if it has water in it. If it has water, be careful about using it over the winter, as more water could get into the gearcase and crack it. Also. make sure you store the motor with the gearcase down, so any water will drain out, before freezing.

Great Advice Here. And maybe not part of a winterization but I would also add to keep the battery(s) on a trickle charger. They will discharge much quicker in the colder months.

 

[ali'i]

Thanks to all, I thought my plan would be okay, just wanted to hear it from someone else, I don't think fuel stabil is needed as every time I start it , it will be with fresh gas from a small can that i'll get when filling up one of the cars, what I don't use with the Evinrude will be put in the car, and it doesn't really get cold enough, for long periods of time around here for what would only be a small amount, if any , water in the gear oil to cause a cracking problem, the gear oil is fresh anyways. Thanks Again