do I need to winterize?

morrow21

Cadet
Joined
Oct 9, 2007
Messages
26
first time boat owner. 90HP merc outboard. took it out this past weekend. I'm in SC, plan on using it this winter. Should I winterize? if not, what is the point at which I should? It has been below freezing already. sits outside on a trailer covered.
 

oops!

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Oct 18, 2007
Messages
12,932
Re: do I need to winterize?

you have an out board.........no.

just keep the motor in the down position and let any water drain from it
 

Bondo

Moderator
Staff member
Joined
Apr 17, 2002
Messages
70,468
Re: do I need to winterize?

Ayuh,... As long as it's stored in the Vertical position, you shouldn't have any problems...
 

lncoop

Vice Admiral
Joined
Apr 18, 2010
Messages
5,147
Re: do I need to winterize?

+1. However, I strongly encourage you to keep Stabil or something comparable in the tank if you don't already. It will keep your Merc smilin'.
 

adam7

Petty Officer 3rd Class
Joined
Jul 30, 2010
Messages
97
Re: do I need to winterize?

I had asked the same question not too long ago and was told basically the same thing. I'm still considering taking it in for a tune up after the holidays, but that's about it. (Just because it's a used boat I just bought and there are a few things I learned of in the 4 months of ownership that need fixing)
 

adam7

Petty Officer 3rd Class
Joined
Jul 30, 2010
Messages
97
Re: do I need to winterize?

+1. However, I strongly encourage you to keep Stabil or something comparable in the tank if you don't already. It will keep your Merc smilin'.

Speaking of Stabil, I got the red stuff at the local bait shop for when I put regular gas in, but then I found the black stuff at Bass Pro Shops which says it is specifically for Ethanol treatment.
Red:
41yGGqpoGYL._SL500_AA300_.jpg

Black:
41YmFxEuOXL._SL500_AA300_.jpg


Is there really a major difference between the two? The black requires about half the amount the red does according to the directions, but it costs twice as much.
 

lncoop

Vice Admiral
Joined
Apr 18, 2010
Messages
5,147
Re: do I need to winterize?

There have been numerous spirited iboats debates about the viability of Stabil type treatments, but most (there are still a few skeptics) at least agree on its value as a stabilizing additive. To that end, the red will be fine. Pretty much any additive that prevents phase separation will benefit your fuel system.
 

Slip Away

Lieutenant
Joined
May 11, 2010
Messages
1,431
Re: do I need to winterize?

Ayuh..... No winterization since you will be using it periodically.
 

jspansel

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Oct 26, 2010
Messages
126
Re: do I need to winterize?

Same as on my motorcycle, I do not winterize that. There is always at least 1 day a month I can get it out and run it through its paces.
 
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