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Regular outboard servicing is essential for keeping your engine running smoothly and efficiently. Whether you own a Tohatsu, Evinrude Johnson, Mercury Mariner, Honda, Yamaha, or Suzuki motor, routine maintenance prevents breakdowns and extends the lifespan of your engine.
A well-maintained outboard motor not only performs better but also saves you money on repairs and fuel consumption. Regular checks, cleaning, and servicing ensure that your engine remains in peak condition, avoiding costly issues while out on the water.
In this guide, we’ll cover essential maintenance tips, troubleshooting advice, and when it’s best to seek professional servicing.
After saltwater use, flushing your engine with fresh water helps prevent corrosion and debris build-up. Use a flushing attachment or flush-muffs to clean the system, ensuring longevity. Products such as Star brite Salt Off can be added to the water to remove salt deposits, either via a flushing attachment, or adding to a container of water.
Like a car engine, an outboard motor requires clean oil to function properly. Check the oil levels regularly. The oil should be changed every 100 hours of use, or annually to prevent damage.
Faulty spark plugs can cause misfires, poor fuel efficiency, and difficulty starting your engine. Checking and replacing them when needed ensures smooth performance and reliable ignition.
A damaged propeller affects fuel efficiency and performance, while a clogged cooling system can lead to overheating. Regularly inspect cooling intakes and clean both to keep your engine running at its best.
If your outboard motor won’t start, check the fuel system, battery connections, and spark plugs. Ensuring your engine is properly primed and your kill switch is engaged.
A clogged fuel filter, dirty carburettor, or faulty spark plugs can cause idling issues and power loss. Regular servicing can prevent these problems from occurring.
Blocked cooling water intakes, low oil levels, or a failing water pump can lead to overheating. Cleaning the cooling intakes and replacing worn-out parts can resolve the issue.
Excessive smoke can indicate oil or fuel mixture problems, while high fuel consumption may result from a dirty carburettor or propeller issues. Keeping your engine clean and properly tuned helps maintain efficiency.
Even with regular maintenance, an annual professional service ensures your outboard motor remains in peak condition. Trained technicians can spot and fix issues before they become major problems.
If your outboard is under warranty, annual servicing will be part of the warranty terms and conditions.
Certain parts, such as the water pump impeller and fuel filters, need professional replacement to maintain optimal engine performance.
Modern outboard motors often require diagnostic scans and software updates, which are best carried out by experienced marine engineers.
Neglecting small maintenance tasks can lead to costly engine failures. A professional servicing schedule helps extend the life of your motor and ensures safety on the water.
You should service your outboard motor at least once a year or every 100 hours of use. Regular maintenance helps prevent costly repairs and ensures reliable performance.
For winter storage, flush the engine, change the engine oil and gear oil, drain the fuel or use a fuel stabiliser such as 2+4 Fuel Conditioner.
If your engine is overheating or not circulating water properly, it may be time to replace the water pump impeller or install a water pump repair kit. A professional inspection can confirm if a replacement is needed.
Sun: Closed
Mon: Closed
Tue: 9-5
Wed: 9-5
Thu: 9-5
Fri: 9-5
Sat: 9-5
Arrangements can be made out of business hours. Please contact beforehand.