Need basic outboard help!

[newboatowner]

Received a 14' aluminum with a 20hp Mercury 200 outboard. It's been sitting for a couple of years in a shed, and I need some basic help. We put it in the water 2 days ago and started it (battery's dead, had to use pull rope). Seemed to run ok, but before we use it the rest of the season, I'd like to make sure everything's ok. Any ideas?

 

[JB]

Re: Need basic outboard help!

Howdy new owner. Replace the impeller in the waterpump. This is routine, preventive maintenance on an OB. Buy a manual to show you how. <br /><br />Keep a spare: prop and set of spark plugs in your boat.<br /><br />Red sky at night. . . <br />JB

 

[JB]

Re: Need basic outboard help!

Check out the "Hey, New Boat Owner" thread, below.<br /><br />Red Sky. . . <br />JB