Outboard motor wintering

Outboard motors are commonly used, but do you know the importance of winter storage? Find out now what it is and what are the best tips to achieve success with this essential maintenance task.

What is winterizing an outboard motor?

This is the name given to the period in which you are not going to use the engine. The usual thing is that you sail during the spring, summer and part of the fall, but that you do not do it in winter. During those months, it is essential to take into account the following measures so that your engine is perfect when you use it again.

Practical recommendations

Caring for an electric outboard motor requires that before storing it:

· Thoroughly clean all mechanical parts, replace (always using original spare parts) those that present a problem and properly grease parts such as the accelerator or gearbox, so that it works like the first day.

If your engine is gasoline, you must take into account, apart from the previous advice, those that we are now commenting on:

· Carry out an oil change by checking the pressure and doing a small ignition test. The level must be correct.

· Fill the fuel tank. You will avoid the condensation of water inside and the oxidation. Check for leaks and the filter.

· Change the antifreeze fluid, also checking the corresponding connections.

· Replace the sacrificial anodes so your engine doesn't lose efficiency.

· Check the alternator belts and those installed in the cooling pump. Adjust them so they have the necessary tension.

· Change the spark plugs.

· Check the battery electrolyte level.

After all these operations, you can use the corresponding cover to prevent dirt from entering the engine and store it during the months when you are not going to use your boat.

How to buy the perfect outboard motor?

In our store you will find those of our own brand, GOII, and also a wide assortment of second hand outboard motors. Remember that only the advice of professionals with experience in the sector will help you to acquire the engine that best suits your boat.

If you already have one, we recommend that you do an annual review, better if before wintering. Otherwise, you could face problems with the operation of your engine after months of inactivity.

Outboard motors are still the best complement to your boat. Do not forget to implement the measures mentioned so that wintering only supposes the temporary interruption of your crossings, but not the beginning of a mechanical problem. In the latter case, count on us to renew your engine with any reference from our catalog that suits your needs.