Open up an outboard and this— hugely simplified —is what you'll find inside:
See full version: Outboard motors
Open up an outboard and this— hugely simplified —is what you'll find inside:
Photo: A typical outboard motor on the back of a scuba diver's RIB (rigid inflatable boat). The propeller at the bottom of the motor "screws" through the water to push you along (that's why propellers are sometimes called screws).
U ntil engines were invented, the only way to power a small boat was with oars or sails. Calm and elegant it might have been, but it took ages to get anywhere quickly—and you had to rely on there being wind or muscle power available. Outboard motors have changed all that. Invented in the early years of the 20th century, outboards brought the same freedom to small boats that gasoline engines brought to cars. Let's take a closer look at these handy machines and find out how they work!
Text copyright © Chris Woodford 2008, 2020. All rights reserved. Full copyright notice and terms of use.
Fogging the engine applies a coating of oil to the cylinders, pistons, rings and other components in the upper end. This helps prevent rust formation during storage. In most cases, you need to run the motor while fogging it. But, some newer motors are equipped with automated systems that fog the motor for you. Check your owner’s manual for details about your specific motor. [links]
Be sure to charge and disconnect the battery. If your boat won’t be in a climate-controlled environment, it’s best practice to remove the battery and store it in your basement or other climate-controlled environment.
It’s critical to change gear lube prior to storage to remove any water so it doesn’t freeze, causing damage, or hasten rust on gears and bearings, shortening component life.
Rust can form on the tilt tube and restrict movement when raising or lowering the motor. Apply a water-resistant grease to the tilt tube, trailer bearings and other grease fittings to help displace moisture and guard against rust formation. [links]