Leaving Engine Tilted Up

[phipps]

We have a pontoon with a 1983 50hp Evinrude on it. We have it moored at a dock on a local lake. I have been tilting the motor out of the water when we're not using it. Am I risking any damage to the engine if it's tilted up for an extended period of time? Thanks, Gary

 

[GA_Boater]

Wouldn't be any different than tilting it up for trailer transport and storage. No damage concerns to worry about.

 

[phipps]

Thanks. What are the thoughts of leaving it in the water versus tilting it up when not in use?

 

[emdsapmgr]

Many lakes and rivers in the upper Midwest are infested with zebra mussels. These nasty critters will infest the cooling and exhaust areas that are underwater if you leave the engine down. I'd opt to do the same thing you are doing.