For most, the boating season is coming to a close. That means it’s time to start thinking about proper engine storage. Michael Potter, director of marketing for Johnson and Evinrude Parts and Accessories, offers the following winterizing tips:
– Stabilize engine fuel supply by adding fuel conditioner, such as OMC 2+4, to the gas tank, following bottle directions for appropriate amount.
– Carefully inspect engine for potential problems such as worn belts, hoses, electrical wiring and leaks. Make sure all screws and nuts are on tight.
– Run engine at about 1,500 r.p.m. for 5 minutes to ensure that fuel supply system and engine’s carburetors are full of stabilized fuel.
– Clean internal engine components by spraying engine tuner into carburetor’s air intake. Run engine as directed to clear tuner.
– Stop engine and remove all sparkplugs. Spray liberal amount of fogging oil into sparkplug holes.
– Turn flywheel in a clockwise direction to distribute fogging oil throughout cylinders. Install and torque sparkplugs.
– To prevent accidental starting during storage, leave leads off all sparkplugs.
– If engine is equipped with portable fuel tank, disconnect fuel hose from engine and tank.
– If engine is removed from boat, carefully store factory-specified hardware used to attach remote steering, shift and throttle systems with engine.
– Inspect entire boat steering system for damage due to corrosion, aging, abuse or lack of maintenance. Inspect mechanical steering cables for deterioration or cracks.
– Remove battery and check condition, water level and charge. Store in a cool, dry place, out of direct sunlight. Check water level and charge periodically during storage.