How to Winterize a Four Stroke Outboard Motor

Summary

This guide addresses the proper method of winterizing a four-stroke outboard motor, clearing up common confusion. Key steps include flushing the motor with freshwater, checking for salt buildup, changing the lower unit oil, and adding a fuel stabilizer to combat ethanol effects. It's crucial to run the engine to ensure the stabilized fuel circulates. Unlike two-strokes, fogging a four-stroke motor is optional if it’s started every few weeks. The video also debunks the myth of needing antifreeze, explaining that proper drainage prevents freezing, making the motor winter-ready.

Takeaways

• 😀 Four-stroke outboards are very popular, but winterizing them differs from two-strokes.
• 🚿 The first step in winterizing is to give the motor a thorough freshwater flush for 5 to 10 minutes.
• 🔍 After flushing, remove the cowling and check for any salt buildup inside, rinsing it away if found.
• 🛢️ Change the lower unit oil, even if it’s fresh, to avoid water-induced damage during freezing temperatures.
• ⛽ Adding a fuel stabilizer is essential, especially since ethanol was introduced into fuels.
• 🏃‍♂️ Run the motor for 10 to 15 minutes after adding the fuel stabilizer to ensure it moves through the system.
• 🔄 Tilt the motor up and down completely to drain all water, as leftover water could freeze and cause damage.
• 🌫️ Engine fogger is traditionally used to winterize by spraying into the air intake and cylinders, but many experts now advise against it for four-stroke engines.
• 🕒 Regularly starting the motor every 3 weeks eliminates the need for engine fogging in four-strokes.
• ❄️ Antifreeze isn't necessary for four-stroke outboards if all water has been properly drained.

Q & A

What is the first step in winterizing a four-stroke outboard motor?

The first step is to give the motor a good freshwater flush to clean out any salt and debris.

What equipment might you need to flush a four-stroke outboard motor?

You may need a pair of ear muffs or a hose that can be threaded directly into the motor, depending on the model.

Why is it important to check for salt buildup inside the motor after flushing?

Salt buildup inside the motor can lead to corrosion, so it’s important to rinse away any salt to avoid damage.

Why is it necessary to change the lower unit oil, even if it's fresh?

You should change the lower unit oil to ensure no water has gotten in. If water freezes, it expands, which can cause serious damage to the motor.

What is the role of fuel stabilizer in winterizing a four-stroke outboard motor?

Fuel stabilizer is necessary to prevent ethanol in the fuel from degrading over time. It helps maintain fuel quality during storage.

Why should you run the motor for 10 to 15 minutes after adding fuel stabilizer?

Running the motor for 10 to 15 minutes ensures that the stabilized fuel circulates through the entire motor, protecting the fuel system.

Why is it important to tilt the motor up and down during winterization?

Tilting the motor all the way up and down ensures that all water drains out, preventing any water from freezing and causing damage.

Is antifreeze necessary for winterizing a four-stroke outboard motor?

No, antifreeze is not necessary. If the motor is properly drained, no water should remain inside to freeze and cause damage.

What is the traditional use of engine fogger in winterizing a motor?

Engine fogger is traditionally sprayed into the air intake while the motor runs until smoke comes out, and a spritz is applied inside each cylinder to prevent rust during storage.

Is it necessary to fog a four-stroke outboard motor for winterization?

No, it may not be necessary to fog a four-stroke motor if you start the motor every 3 weeks during the winter to keep it running properly.