1999 115 FICHT Winterize/Spring Start Up

[heikkila31]

Hello!

I recently got into the outboard motor circuit last year. What exactly is fogging the motor? Anything else i should be doing annually to keep my motor in good shape (winterizing), and what should i be doing in the spring to get it going correctly changing fuel filters, oils, plugs, etc.... I am sure it wasn't fogged last year and i would like to start it off right from here on out.

Just a broken down wastewater operator looking for some help. Thanks!

[Silvertip]

You are already one season behind on maintenance. Fogging an engine is done to lubricate it's internals BEFORE it is put up for storage. The fuel system should also have a fuel system treatment like Stabil or SeaFoam added to the fuel and the engine run for a bit before putting it up for the winter season. Failure to do this means the fuel system (carbs, injectors, etc) can get gummed up and cause lean running conditions that burn down engines. You also change lower unit lub to check for water. Water in the lower unit during the winter can freeze breaking the housing. Doing these things BEFORE lay-up means all you need to do in spring is add fresh fuel and go boating.