Re: Winterization
If it is stored where it can freeze, and there happens to be water in the gearcase oil, it could crack the gearcase. This is why we change the gearcase oil at the end of the season.<br /><br />There could be some problems with old gas in the carb which would make first start difficult. Best to drain the gas out and get new gas in the tank and carb before trying to start it. I like to purge the gas out of the tank hose too. It doesn't do much good to fill the tank with new gas if the first 3 ounces of gas that make it to the carb are old and gunky.<br /><br />I wouldn't get too worried about it unless you know you have water in your gearcase. Many many many owners of small outboards don't, or didn't winterize. Years ago, I knew many owners that just ran the engine dry of gas and threw it in the garage.<br /><br />That being said, you really should winterize to prevent corrosion, ease of starting in the spring, and prevent gearcaes cracks and seal problems, etc.
