Winterizing ?

[crguy]

Is it a problem if I leave my 87 15 hp johnson in the garage for the winter? I am in the Northeast and the temps get well below freezing in the winter. I have always put it in the basement, however that is a pain and if its not necessary I would just as well not do it.<br />I ran the gas out and ran with the muffs and fresh water to flush it out.

 

[angus63]

Re: Winterizing ?

Instead of running the fuel out, I would add stabilizer to your fuel tank and run the motor for at least 1/2 hr. Then I would fog the motor and store it vertically and you should not have any issues. A dry motor tends to oxidize pretty quickly. I also replace my lower unit oil before storing in case water made its way in there and freezing would cause damage. I'm sure you'll get many opinions, but this has worked for me in the Northeast for the last 25 yrs.<br />Good luck

 

[zantz]

Re: Winterizing ?

There is a very good article about Winterizing in the General FAQ's and questions Forum. The experts took some time and wrote (or researched) some very good articles, about many different problems, even the experienced would find interesting.<br /><br />Hats off to the experts for taking the time to do the articles. Those articles have been needed and will be appreciated.

 

[ED21]

Re: Winterizing ?

Every outboard I ever had has been stored in an unheated building for the winter with no ill effects.<br />I have heard of promlems w/ mice building nests, but have never had that happen to me.<br />All the other winterizing comments apply too.

 

[dajohnson53]

Re: Winterizing ?

I've also always stored outside in the freezing weather. I bought a cheap outboard cover for them though. Just to keep the blowing snow, etc. out of the cowling. I vaguely remember reading that storing in a constant, cold area like outside, is better than a place that might promote condensation. Don't know if that's significant, but I cling to anything that supports what I do.