Wet or Dry.

[Redfred1]

I'm getting ready to winterize the boat until Spring; got the time now. Just wondered what the general rules are?
1. Should I run the motor (100HP Evinrude) to to empty the carbs to keep the gaskets; float; etc. dry; or leave gas in motor and risk the carbs getting plugged up with varnish?
2. Have 20 gallons of gas in tank. Use the Stabil and leave alone; or drain a risk moisture build up in the tank?
3. I have a 12vVDC power supply that charges at 500ma. Will this work without overcharging the battey?
Any thoughts or suggestions?

 

[WIMUSKY]

1) Yes/No You'll hear both sides. Your carbs won't varnish over winter if left full. They probably wont be full come spring anyway...

2) Yes/No Again, you'll hear both sides. I use Seafoam and leave whatever is in the tank over winter. Others drain and still others don't use any additive. Everyone sez their method works the best, so they all must work....

3) 500Ma is .5 A No chance of overcharging. Will it kickout when battery is charged, or is it a constant charge? I use a Battery Tender on my batteries...

 

[dingbat]

1. I add stabilizer to the fuel prior to the last trip of the season, typically mid-December. Carbs full of stabilized fuel. No need to drain.

2. I carry up to 142 gallon of fuel on board. Just stabilize what's left at the end of the season and forget it until Spring

3. Batteries: 3 month layover - Check water level, fully charge and leave in boat. Recharge in Spring

 

[gm280]

They make trickle charge timers. And what they do is turn on for about a second and then off for about 10 seconds. And therefore you can let them on in that mode forever with whatever charger you have. JMHO!

 

[Redfred1]

Thanks for the replies! The last time out was in August; Washed the boatt out; flushed the motor for 10-15 minutes; backed it in the barn; been sitting there since. Will disconnect the battery; and close the doors. Thanks again.

 

[Chris1956]

Gee, grease the zercs and lube the steering rod. Spray the block with corrosion guard or something similar. Change the gear oil. Top off the PTT reservoir. You care to fog that beastie?