Keeping your outboard in tip-top
shape can be done even if you're not a mechanic. There is nothing worse than
trying to run to shore to flee an incoming storm and hearing that
all-too-familiar cough and sputter from the outboard. Preventive maintenance
could have prevented the fact that you are now bobbing around like a cork,
pounded by waves and soaked by the torrential downpour.
If you are not a mechanic, get a
reliable one and start every season with a professional tune-up. You should
have the mechanic test the spark, run a compression test, pressure test the
lower unit, check the seals and water pump, test the warning alarms and, in
general, go over the motor in such a manner as to eliminate most causes of
breakdown. After you have had your annual check-up there are many things that
you can do to help assure that you make it through the season without being
towed home.
After every outing, flush out the
engine. This doesn’t just apply to salt water outings but to fresh water as
well. If the lake or river you operate on isn’t as clear as the water from your
garden hose you need to flush. If you ran aground and kicked up some sand, you
need to flush. It won’t take long, ten to fifteen minutes, and during that time
you can check out some other items.
Simply slip this apparatus onto
the lower unit where the water is picked up and attach a garden hose. Start up
the engine and let the water pump do the rest. While the motor is being flushed, check the
water pump to make sure you have good water flow. Carefully put your finger
through the stream of water. It may be warm, but it shouldn’t be hot. If the
output is not strong, you may have some debris stuck in the outflow tube. You
should immediately shut down the engine to prevent overheating and damage. A
small piece of wire or similar object can be inserted up into the flow tube and
worked back and forth. Start the engine again and check the output. If that
doesn’t solve the problem you may need a new water pump.
After flushing the engine, you
should disconnect the fuel line and allow the engine to burn all the fuel in
the carburetor. By the way, make sure you always use fresh fuel. You should not
use fuel that has been sitting around for over 60 days. That means; at the end of
your season take the fuel in your tanks to the proper recycling authority.
As a Townsville marine equipment installation, Blue Ocean Vessel Maintenance is
committed to providing you with the professional expert service you deserve.
Our certified technicians use state of the art diagnostic equipment to ensure
your boat is fixed right the first time, every time. Our experienced riggers
can install everything from depth finders to motors. Our commitment to quality
service is unsurpassed.
As a Townsville outboard servicing
provider, our service department is equipped to service all of your outboard
motor and boating needs. Our certified technicians have years of experience in
the marine industry and have a wealth of knowledge to troubleshoot any
situation. For more information visit the site http://bovm.com.au/
.
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