Equipment Outfitters

A program of preventive maintenance for your engine can help ensure trouble-free boating. Inboard engines and sterndrives have similar maintenance programs. Regular pre-start checklists, like those used by airline pilots, serve as useful reminders. In addition, you should plan to give your engine a thorough once-over examination every few weeks to check items that aren’t part of the pre-start list.

Oil and Water Levels

These should be checked prior to each outing. Plan to change the oil after every 100 hours of running, or sooner if the engine manual recommends it. In addition, squeeze the water hoses. If they feel soft they should be replaced. Rubber tubing dries out quickly in a hot engine compartment. Preservative solutions help prolong hose life. When you buy a hose, get new hose clamps and a spare hose as well.

Drive Belts

These can wear, stretch and develop cracks on the inner surface or break. Always keep spares on board.

Electrical System

A major cause of engine problems is the mixture of moisture and electrical power. Carry spare spark plugs and plug wires, distributor cap and rotor. Water-displacing lubricants help keep moisture out of critical parts.

Fuel System

Check and clean the carburetor fuel filter every two to three months, particularly on outboards. The flame arrestor on the carburetor should be cleaned at the same time. On outboards with portable fuel tanks the rubber fuel hose should be checked for leaks or wear.

Control System

Most shift and throttle cables, as well as steering systems, have lubrication points which can be greased to prevent binding. Your owner’s manual will point these out.

Miscellaneous

All hoses should be double clamped for security. Use an engine degreaser to clean the engine so leaks or rust can be spotted. Touch up rust spots with a marine-grade anti-rust paint after sanding the spot down to the bare metal. Also pump out and clean the bilges under the engine to prevent moisture and dirt from getting to the engine.

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