Winterizing - Outdrive only

[TwoBallScrewBall]

Hi all. First boat/first winter for me. It's an 99 baylier with a 3.0/omc outdrive. The 3.0 is blown and out of the boat, leaving only the complete outdrive. What do I need to do to prepare the outdrive only for the winter? <br /><br />Thanks!<br /><br />Steve

 

[merc 140 pontoon]

Re: Winterizing - Outdrive only

I'd like to hear the experts' opinions on this, but I'll give you my input (take it for what it's worth, i.e. my 2 cents worth):<br /><br />Change the gear lube.<br /><br />If you can tilt the drive, tilt it to several angles to ensure that all the water has come out the prop and the little drain hole. Look at the drain hole to make sure it isn't clogged.<br /><br />Steve

 

[Capt. T]

Re: Winterizing - Outdrive only

I would rig some type of stand for the outdrive so its not laying on its side. This will ensure no unintended oil leaks.<br /><br />Next change the out the oil, you want to completely replace the oil so you don't store it with water contaminated oil in it. I'd also look at the universal joints and put a thin layer of high quality grease on exposed gears / spline shaft.<br /><br />You said the engine was blown and out of the boat (presumably for repair) have you or anyone throughly checked the outdrive for related damage and/or abuse? <br /><br />Just a thought but I would look most closely at the outdrive before reassembly.<br /><br />Best of luck & welcome to the wonderful world of boating & I/Os

 

[TwoBallScrewBall]

Re: Winterizing - Outdrive only

Bucky, I should have been more clear, the outdrive is still on the boat. Only removed the engine. <br /><br />And I also noticed a typo, it is an 88 bayliner, I just wish it was a 99. <br /><br />So, basically just change the oil and make sure that it's water-free? Thanks.

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: Winterizing - Outdrive only

If you can you should pour some warm water into the water passage hole to flush the salt from the impeller and housing.Charlie

 

[loadnet]

Re: Winterizing - Outdrive only

I like crazy's idea of rinsing the outdrive with fresh water then I'd add antifreeze thru the same access tube in the event there's a pocket of water somewhere that never made it out.<br />You can also use a air compressor to blow it out further if need be.<br /><br />Then there's suggestion No. 2<br />Remove it and mount it to your family room wall inside the house. They look real nice hanging along side the lobster pots and bouys!<br /><br />PS: If your wife and her 2 sisters are bigger than you, make DARN sure your bodily injury insurance is up to date first!

 

[TwoBallScrewBall]

Re: Winterizing - Outdrive only

Now there's an idea. Luckily she has no sisters, just two brothers who would probably go along with that idea.

 

[loadnet]

Re: Winterizing - Outdrive only

On a more serious note..<br /><br />You want to change the gear oil as well because if what's in there now is contaminated with water at all, you don't want that sitting all winter with that junk in there.<br /><br />Dump it and put fresh gear oil in there before you rap up the project.<br /><br />I sure would.

 

[llerrad]

Re: Winterizing - Outdrive only

No engine take it off and take it home to the warm place and replace gear lub it comes out better in a warm place and no worry of cold weather freeze up.

 

[TwoBallScrewBall]

Re: Winterizing - Outdrive only

It is home, the boat is sitting in front of my garage. I think I'll just drain/refill it and that's that. It's still around 70 during midday here so it should flow out fine. <br /><br />Thanks Everyone!

 

[tylerin]

Re: Winterizing - Outdrive only

Huminski, I've read most of your posts, and I know that your considering changing motors (maybe to a v-8). If you do, that Cobra isn't geared for a V-8. Whatever you do you'll have to align the motor which would be easy w/ the drive out. My suggestion is pull the drive and bring her inside. Good luck w/ your project

 

[TwoBallScrewBall]

Re: Winterizing - Outdrive only

Thanks. I think I'm going to end up sticking with the 140 (3.0). 45MPH is enough for me, for now anyway. This will be the most reliable way to get back in the water.