When things change

[Greg New Zealand]

We all notice changes in our motors from time to time. Sounds different, doesn't start the same, throttle seems stiff .... Finding out why things change can avoid more complicated and expensive issues later.<br />Many of the repair forum topics are posted for problems that could have been avoided. There must be plenty of instances that members could post that may benefit those who are not preventative maintenance oriented.

 

[Dunaruna]

Re: When things change

Carry simple spares such as plugs, points and fuel filter (including relevent clamps).<br /><br />If unsure about changing these things, practice, practice, practice, at home in the driveway.<br /><br />A can of wd40 or similar is a must, it will even shine up gelcoat!<br /><br />Preventative maintenance is the key, check everything, take nothing for granted. Just because it ran great last time doesn't mean it will this time.<br /><br />IMO performing maintenance is part of the joy of boating, even sitting in your boat with your hands buried in your motor is better than the 9 to 5 slog.<br /><br />One last thing, before your outing, start the motor at home. Helps to avoid that frustrating/embarrasing scene at the ramp.<br /><br />Aldo

 

[LubeDude]

Re: When things change

I know people that have never even had there engine cover off, He*l, some do not even know how to remove it. Get familirt with your engine, know where things are, pay attention to how it sounds, and keep a small log in the file for your boat, (you do have one dont you), So you know when you replaced your fuel pump, water pump, changed your lower unit oil, plugs etc. I guarantee you that you havnt done it as much as you think you have. I have a brother-in-law that never touches his engine and he goes out in the ocean all the time, Not me, He wonders why I wont go out with him, he thinks Im afraid of the ocean, No, Im afraid of his practices.