5 Tips for Servicing an Outboard Engine

Outboard engines have been the power source of choice for many boats over the years. If you own a boat with an outboard engine, you most likely want to continue using it for years to come. This guide has the five best tips for servicing an outboard engine successfully. To learn more and check out the latest deals on boats, come to Boat Country. Our dealership, located in Everett, Washington, welcomes customers from Snohomish and Marysville, Washington. 

1. Power-Head Inspection

To inspect and service the power head of your outboard engine, start by draining the fuel. Once you have emptied the fuel, you can check the engine components for signs of rust, wear, or corrosion. Once you drain the fuel, you can better ripe away salt, dirt, and dust from the cowling and engine. 

2. Lower-Leg Service

With the engine on a stand for easy access, you can inspect and remove the propeller from the lower leg. There should be no dents or bent blades on the propeller. Boats with severely damaged propellers can have issues running smoothly. 

With the propeller removed, you should inspect all the inner parts for wear and deterioration. For example, the splines should not have too much wear, or they will cause slippage. The shaft seal guard is another vital point to inspect. Hidden issues, such as caught fishing line, can result in damage that lets saltwater in the gearbox. Replace the shaft seal at the first sign of wear.

3. Changing Leg Oil

The leg oil also needs to be changed before you can put the propeller back in place. Check that the oil is not cloudy, or you may have a water leak. Most boats have engines that require filling oil from the bottom. Be prepared with an overflow container in case of spillage. Once you have changed the leg oil, you can reassemble your propeller. 

4. Tank Care

Common problems with fuel tanks include sun damage, brittle plastic, and splits. The fill-cap gasket can also display corrosion from the fuel, which might indicate a leak. Change or replace any seriously damaged components promptly.  

5. Long-Term Storage<

At the end of the season, many people begin putting their boats up for storage. Carefully prepare your outboard engine for storage, too. At the very least, you need to remove any fuel left in the engine before packing it up.

With some extra care and routine maintenance, you can make your outboard engine last season after season. Come to Boat Country in Everett, Washington, and our team will show you around our latest inventory of boats and more. We proudly serve Snohomish and Marysville, Washington.