Evinrude XD 50 Motor Oil | Outboard Motor Oil - Part 5

Mystic Seaport

Growing up in Connecticut, I visited the Mystic Seaport and Mystic Aquarium frequently with my family. Though I loved seeing the sea lions and beluga whales, I most enjoyed visiting the collection of ships at the Seaport. Several of the iconic ships have been deemed National Historic Landmarks.

Among the designated landmarks is the Charles W. Morgan. The Morgan was a U.S. whale ship used in the late 19th and early 20th century. It is the only surviving wooden whale ship from the 19th century American fleet. Even as an adult I find the ship impressive, though I’m glad the only oil I have to use on my small boat is Evinrude XD 50 oil, and not whale oil.

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Keep It Clean


Part of properly winterizing a boat is giving it a thorough cleaning. I’ve used the same brand for several years now, but lately it hasn’t been doing the trick. I’m not sure if the formula has changed, I just know that it doesn’t work.

When I went to purchase some Evinrude XD 50 oil, I decided to take a look at what other cleaning products are on the market. After browsing through several brands, I chose to go with Evinrude Johnson Marine Cleaner. It worked wonders on the hull, convertible top, and vinyl upholstery. Even tough exhaust stains wiped away easily. I believe that I have found my new go-to to cleaner.

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What’s in a Name?

The best part of purchasing a new boat is getting to pick out a name. Some people are sentimental and name their boats after a spouse or child. I think that’s a great idea, but I lean toward funny or clever names.

When I walk down to the marina I keep an eye out for funny boat names. Friends also send me links to boats with clever names like “Vitamin Sea” and “Playbuoy.” A great party boat name is “Cirrhosis of the River.” Sometimes I’ll strike up a conversation with the boat owner’s while they’re changing their Evinrude XD50 oil. Boat owners with cleverly named ships tend to be pretty friendly and easy going.

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Best Light Show in Town

The cooler weather is making me nostalgic for summer. This past Independence Day was quite spectacular. Per tradition, the whole family stayed at my grandparents’ home on Long Beach Island. From the rooftop deck, we had the best view in town of the fireworks.

We could see the mainland’s fireworks show to one side and then simply swiveled our chairs to see the island’s fireworks display. Best of all, when it got really dark around, we watched the fireworks display over Atlantic City. The famed casino town goes all out, which is probably why all the boats cruised up the inter-coastal before nightfall to get a good spot to see the show. I’m betting a hefty chunk of those boat owners used Evinrude XD 50 oil in their engines.

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Hampton Vacation

When people think of “The Hamptons” they think of wealthy New Yorkers with massive beach front mansions. While there are a number of wealthy New Yorkers who reside in the Hamptons during the summer, there are plenty of folks who call the Hamptons home year round. There are even more Americans who simply like to vacation there in the summer.

Personally, I like to spend a week with my family in Montauk in East Hampton. We get to enjoy the beach, Montauk sound, and great local flavor. If we can swing it, we’ll rent a boat for a day or two for cruising about and fishing. I’ve noticed that the rental shop uses Evinrude XD50 oil, which is what I would use, too, if I spent a lot of time out on the water.

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Changing a Johnson Lower Unit Seal

The lower level of a Johnson outboard houses the water pump and propeller, among other important parts. Two seals keep the water out of the gears and keeps packed grease in, so if the seals become damaged in any way this can cause lots of problems. Therefore, when a seal is damaged it must be replaced.

Start by removing the cotter pin and then the propeller nut. Place the steering wheel puller over the propeller shaft, then lock the arms of the steering wheel puller and depress the bearing carrier off the gear case. Remove the damaged seal and pull out the old O-ring. Place the new seal into the bearing carrier and tap it into place with a mallet. Finally, spread grease on the seal. Don’t forget to replace the motor oil with Evinrude XD 50 oil!

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Paella, Part 2

If you’re following along from yesterday’s post, then you’re probably chomping at the bit to get cooking. Start by heating 1 tablespoon of oil in a sauté pan on medium-high heat. Cook the shrimp in the sauté pan until they are pink on both sides. Set the cooked shrimp aside. Next you need to add more oil to the pan so you can cook the sausage until it begins to brown, and then add in onions, garlic, and rice.

Stir in the paprika, turmeric, diced tomatoes, broth, salt and pepper. Bring the whole dish to a boil, and then reduce the heat to simmer. Place a lid on the pan and let the dish cook for 25 minutes. During the last minute stir in the peas. Voila! You may not have enough room to eat the whole pan, so save some for your next boat outing on your outboard motorboat that’s engine has been properly lubricated with Evinrude XD 50 oil.

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Troubleshooting a Two-Stroke Outboard Engine, Part 2

Yesterday, we left off with checking and fixing ignition wiring. Once you’re confident that there are no lingering wiring problems, turn the engine on and listen for the engine turning over, and failing that, clicking. Turn off the engine and locate the starter mechanism or solenoid if there isn’t an engine starter.

Tap the starter or solenoid with a screwdriver handle, and then try the ignition again. Next, pull the spark plug cap off and use a socket wrench to pull out the spark plug. If the spark plug is covered in gunk, replace the old spark plug, and add in new synthetic 2 stroke outboard oil. Finally check the fuel tank, vent, and fuel line for leaks.

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Spotlight On: Forrest L. Wood

The design of the modern bass boat is largely attributed to one man, Forrest L. Wood. While maintaining a construction business and cattle farm, Wood began his fishing career as a guide on lakes and rivers in his home state of Arkansas. In 1968 Wood began building his own lake boats.

By 1970 Ranger Boats sold 1,200 units. In 1971, Wood qualified for the first Bassmaster Classic. A year later he inked a deal with the tournament making Ranger Boats the official boat of the Classic until 2000. Today, the Wal-Mart FLW Tour is named after him. Be sure to use Evinrude XD5 oil when you head out in your Ranger boat!

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Spotlight On: Robert Boyd

Robert Boyd has proven that he is one of the top anglers in the Southeast United States. Just this past February, Boyd caught 15 Guntersville Lake bass that totaled 66 pounds, 3 ounces which made him the winner of an EverStart Series Southeast Division fishing tournament. It was Boyd’s first win in the EverStart series and he earned $35,000 and a new bass boat for his efforts.

The prize bass boat was a 198VX Ranger boat with a 200-horsepower Evinrude or mercury outboard motor. Evinrude engines tend to be a popular choice among pro anglers. Whether you’re a professional angler or a recreational fisherman, make sure to use high quality Evinrude XD 5 oil.

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Operation Kid Float

Memorial Day is a deadly holiday for drivers and boaters, particularly in Florida where people flock to the beaches to soak up the sun. The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit patrolled the waters, pulling over boaters to make sure all safety gear was in order. To help keep kids safe, the Sheriff’s Office instituted “Operation Kid Float.”

Children without life jackets were given life jackets to borrow for the day, to be returned to a bucket drop off on shore. Additionally, kids who were found to be wearing their life jackets properly were rewarded with t-shirts. The t-shirts read “I got caught wearing my life jacket by a Pinellas County Deputy Sherriff.” What a positive approach to boat safety! To do your part, inspect your boat thoroughly to make sure you’re in compliance with all safety regulations, and be sure to stock up on Evinrude XD50 oil.

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Memorial Day Weekend Checklist

Memorial Day, though a somber holiday in some respects, is also the unofficial start to the summer season. The three-day weekend at the end of May allows families to flock to pools, beaches, lakes, and rivers for some fun in the sun. Memorial Day weekend is chock full of barbecues and summer kick-off parties.

On the water, boaters are eager to show off their motorboats and jet skis. Everyone just seems to be in a good mood, waving to other boats as they cruise by. To ensure a good time is had by all, make sure to go through your inspection checklist, including refilling with Evinrude XD50 oil. Make sure you have plenty of life vests and that your first aid kits have been restocked. Lots of food, drinks, sunscreen, and friends are also a must for a successful party.

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