A properly functioning outboard motor increases the fun on the water. Nothing more annoying than starting problems or sudden engine failure. In this blog you will read useful tips and information about how to keep your outboard motor in the best condition. The most common problems are addressed.
Contents
Which gasoline for an outboard motor?
Euro 95 is the most commonly used fuel for outboard engines. In contrast to a car, an outboard motor is in most cases not used continuously, because gasoline often does not last longer than 6 to 8 weeks, starting problems can arise, especially with smaller outboard motors. An alternative to euro 95 (E10) is Aspen. With Aspen, the engine always starts because the fuel has a very long life. Aspen does have a higher liter price compared to Euro 95.
Starting problems with the outboard motor
Nine times out of ten, starting problems of an Yamaha outboard motor (translated to Dutch: Yamaha buitenboord motor) are due to old gasoline clogging pipes and possibly the carburettor. Always provide clean petrol. If the starting problems persist, bring your bike over for maintenance. We can professionally clean the carburettor of your outboard motor for you. Does the outboard motor stutter at full throttle or shut down completely? Here too, a fuel problem is often the cause. Contact us for technical advice.
Important information about fuel
Fuel older than 4 weeks can no longer be used for an outboard motor.
Are you not going to use an outboard motor for a longer period of time (4+ weeks)? Let the outboard run empty.
Sailing on salt water
Use Teflon spray to spray the hoods, tailpiece and motor itself for better protection against salt water. After you have sailed on salt water, it is important to flush the engine with fresh water. Also remove salt residues, which can cause unsightly deposits. A dock boat is a type of boat which can sail everywhere, even on salty water.
Always check the cooling radius of the outboard motor
The recognizable water jet behind your motorcycle. When you go sailing, it is extremely important to always check the cooling radius of your engine. The cooling jet is actually an optical means of control so that everyone can quickly see whether the engine is cooling itself. Tip: do you have the idea that the engine is cooling well but the control jet does not come out of the engine? For example, use a skewer to remove any dirt. In normal use, we recommend replacing the impeller (the paddle wheel that pumps the water to the motor) once every 2 to 3 years. The impeller is a relatively inexpensive part, but it is very important to replace it in time. During a major overhaul, the impeller is always replaced. Fortunately, many modern engines have protection systems to prevent the engine from overheating.
What oils does an outboard motor use?
Most outboard engines use 10W30 oil. A 2-stroke engine uses mixed lubrication oil that must be added to the gasoline. The tailpiece itself is supplied with tailpiece oil so that all rotating parts remain well lubricated.
Have a clean fuel tank!
Always make sure your motorcycle’s fuel tank is clean. Water and dirt are disastrous for the engine and petrol. It is best to replace old iron tanks with a plastic fuel tank. This will rule out rust on the inside of the tank. Are you planning not to sail for a long time and do you still have a lot of gasoline in the tank? Use a fuel stabilizer to preserve the fuel.
Clean the pipes and possibly carburettor
Chances are that your outboard motor has been idle all winter. It is important to check if it still starts properly. If problems occur, chances are that this is due to the old gasoline. Petrol older than 4 weeks can no longer be used. Often the pipes are clogged and in the worst case also the carburettor. Should this be the case. Then clean the pipes and possibly the carburettor. If problems persist after cleaning the pipes. Or do you suffer from engine failure or stuttering in the gas? Then it is best to contact a maintenance company.
If the vehicle is out of use for 4 weeks or longer, you must remove the petrol. You can also run the engine empty. This will prevent blockages in the pipes.
4-stroke oil outboard motor
A 10w30 oil is often used with a 4-stroke outboard motor, but 10w40 and 25w40 are also found. Always refer to your service book for the correct engine oil for your outboard! Do not only pay attention to quality. The viscosity is also important in this case. Consult your service book for the correct specifications!
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