winterize my engine

[rzkas]

hi? i have a 1995 force 120HP outboard engine. i use my boat every season. season has come to an end and i want to winterize it for the the entire cold seasons until spring and summer. i add oil to the the fuel. when ever i put fuel in the tank, i will add some amount of oil according to the oil mix ratio bottle to the fuel.
what do i need to winterize my engine and what are the steps or instrcutions to winterize my boat. thanks alot. should i keep an empty gas tank or fill up the gas tank? is there oil to be change in the lower end of the engine since i only add oil to the fuel. thanks for all instructions, guide and tips .

 

[fucawi]

Re: winterize my engine

you should certainly check the oil in the gearbox and if its at all milky change it as you dont want any water freezing in there..I personally pull the leg ..and dismantle the water pump so the impeller does not set ..change it if appropriate...grease the inside of the housing to prevent corrosion. you should be checking the pump in the spring anyway so you might as well get any water out of it now ... Fog oil the cylinders but dont leave the plugs out blow out the water passages with compressed air up the pump outlet pipe .....Turn the engine over every month by hand. Charge the battery every 4 weeks when not in use . Tanks get condensation in them if not full ...empty removable tanks ...as fuel deteriorates I always fill the tank and in the spring add 2 % acetone or keep it for the mower ...