More winterizing questions ?

[PAkev]

I am getting ready to winterize my boat and F150 motor (with about 50hrs) for the first time and have a few questions that may seem rote this time of year but something I wish to have a complete understanding of before getting involved.<br /><br />1. I purchased a can of SEA FOAM which the local NAPA guy informed me would work well to lubricate (FOG) the cylinders before tucking it away. I noticed other brand fogging oils to be in an aerosol can but the sea foam I purchased is in liquid form only (not pressurized). Is one any better than the other or just a different method of application.<br /><br />2. I understand "Fogging" can compromise the spark plugs. Not sure if the same applies to 4 strokes. Should I buy a cheap set of plugs to "Fog" and store the motor on.<br /><br />3. I mistakenly opened the hydraulic trim fluid cap and lost some fluid. It appears to be clear like brake fluid but my manual does not mention anything about trim fluid levels and types. Is this something available from a regular parts store or something I need to aquire as a marine product ?<br /><br />4. I believe my lower unit gear oil should be OK but I want to check it anyway and believe I will loose some oil that will need to be replaced in doing so. Since I only anticipate on using a little, is it OK to use any quality brand 90wt gear oil ?<br /><br /><br />Helpful thoughts appreciated<br /><br />Kevin

 

[roscoe]

Re: More winterizing questions ?

I use the liquid Seafoam to maintain the fuel system.<br /><br />I use the aerosol Seafoam (called Deep Creep) to decarb the engine, and have also used the DeepCreep to fog the engine when I have run short of my usual fogging oil.<br /><br />The aerosol allows you to spray directly into the cylinders.<br /><br />Fogging oil never damaged any plugs at my house, but they may need to be cleaned.<br /><br />Some trim units use 30w oil, some use trans fluid, some may use brake fluid. Top off with similar product to avoid mixing them. That being said, I've seen people top off with whatever was available, when they were stranded at the launch ramp.<br /><br />If you are only losing a drop or two from the lower unit, don't worry about it. If you are losing any amount, you might as well take the 10 minutes to change it all, so it is ready to go in the spring. Ofcourse, if you find any evidence of water intrusion in the lube, you will need to change it now, to prevent any freeze/cracking damage.<br /><br />And Mr. T, I need new glasses. <br />appointment is made.