It’s drawing towards the end of the 2021 season in the UK, time to think about putting your engine into storage until spring, it’s essential that you carry out a few simple tasks so that in spring your engine will be in it’s best condition and ready to get straight into use.
If you fail to winterise your outboard engine, there is a real risk that you could cause expensive damage, particulary to the fuel system.
Before putting her away for the winter I would suggest the following with the reasons why:-
1. If you haven’t had a service this year, have an annual service carried out before putting it away, this will ensure aumber of things.
The grease will be fresh so all the surfaces which need grease to function will be correctly lubricated.
The gear oil will be checked to ensure there is no water in there and if there is, it will be flushed out, fresh gear oil added and any leaks resolved.
The fuel system will cleaned and any water removed which can cause significant problems internally in your carburettor if left over winter.
Any minor corrosion will be treated and protected so that it does not degrade and continue to corroded while sat in the back of your shed.
The engine will have been run in fresh water to ensure there is no saltwater inside your engine water passages which could cause significant damage if left over winter.
Any running faults will be addressed so that you are assured when spring comes that your engine will be ready to go.
The internal parts of your engine will be lubricated to ensure you don’t have that terrible moment next spring when you find out your engine is seized solid.
Any fuel remaining in the tank over winter will be treated to ensure it remains stable over the lay up period.
2. If your engine has already had a service this year, there is no need for an addtional service but you do need to winterise your engine.
For 2 stroke engines see:-
Storing a 2 stroke engine over winter
For 4 stroke engines see:-
Storing a 4 stroke engine over winter
If you would like us to carry out a winter service or prepare your engine for storage, please contact us.