winterizing a 1986 115 mariner

[kfoulds]

hello, i am a first time boat owner getting ready for my first winter prep. the outbaord is a mariner 115 hp 1986 inline 6. what and where should i start. i live in boston so teh winters can be pretty harsh and the boat and moter will be stored outdoors. any and all help would be greatly appricated. thanks kenny

 

[Chris1956]

Re: winterizing a 1986 115 mariner

Alysha, Put fuel stabilizer in the gas tank, and run the motor on the muffs for a while. Spray some fogging oil into the carb intakes and either stall the motor with the fog, or turn it off after it is fogged. Now drain and refill the lower unit with marine gear oil, and pump fresh marine grease into the grease fittings on the trim and tilt bracket and distributor. Spray the powerhead with some corrosion inhibitor or even wd-40, and reinstall the cowling.

 

[Clams Canino]

Re: winterizing a 1986 115 mariner

Also store it tilted all the way DOWN and cover the lower with a garbage bag and elastic band.<br /><br />If you can get to it to pump the ball every 2 weeks to keep the carbs full, all the better.<br /><br />-W

 

[Chris1956]

Re: winterizing a 1986 115 mariner

Clams, Why do you recommend covering the lower with plastic. Since I run my motor in salt water, I figure leaving the LU "naked" for outdoor winter storage has got to be better than that. I would think the plastic bag would trap moisture and cause corrosion of something.

 

[Clams Canino]

Re: winterizing a 1986 115 mariner

You don't want water getting into the "bullet" and freezing. At least "shade" it with something.<br /><br />-W