outboard in a well - all year long?

[Matjaz]

I plan to replace my old (much smaller and lighter) outboard on a plastic sailboat with 8hp four stroke high thrust electric start Yamaha outboard with remote controls. It will be running in a well from where it is awkward to be removed and taken out of the sea.<br /><br />My question is, can I keep it in the sea all the year around and only service it once a year during renewing the anti-fouling coat of the hull? This is done at the start of the season in spring before using the boat that year.<br /><br />I am thinking about the built-in motors with sail-drive; I guess this is a similar situation - so I thought it should be possible.<br /><br />Will the anodes keep that long in the salty Adriatic sea? What about the weed? Shall I put antifouling coat on lower part? What type?<br /><br />I understand that I can flush the motor while in the sea, right? Does it help?<br /><br />Thanks in advance for your help.<br /><br />--------------------<br />Matjaz

 

[sirlespat]

Re: outboard in a well - all year long?

Its unclear from your post if the motor remains in the water when not in use or if it can be raised above water level when boat is not in use. If it remains in the water expect lots of trouble, i wouldn,t do it. Be careful with antifouling if it is copper based it will turn your outboard into a sacrificial anode for the preservation of the antifouling paint.<br />Good luck