Boating | Outboard Motor Oil - Part 22

Gauging Your Spark Plugs: Part Two

Knowing how to evaluate your spark plugs is a useful skill for adjusting the flow of gasoline and outboard motor oil your vehicle’s engine burns and identifying other potential engine problems. Last time we went over what a normal and dry spark plug will look like, and today we will finish reviewing the various problems that the spark plug can indicate.

If the insulator is wet and black, it is a likely signal of wet fouling, which is caused by too rich of a fuel to oil ratio or unwarranted use of the choke. Chalky buildup or bumps on the insulator are caused from excess deposits, which are created due to poor fuel quality or bad oil. Lastly, a white and melted insulator shows that the engine is overheating. This is caused by too lean of a fuel mixture or problems with your spark plug placement and heat range.

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Outboard Motor Anatomy: Part Three

Now that we have gone over the two cycle oil and gasoline specifications, as well as the benefits of the outboard motor, it is time to determine which model is right for you. The motor that you choose will be largely dependent on the hull of the craft that you plan to attach it to. Every boat built in the US has a “Guard Rating Plate”; this shows the maximum horsepower for the motor, but you should also be sure never to go below 75 percent of this number.

The other main spec to take into consideration is the shaft length. On outboard motors, this measurement is customized to fit 15, 20 or 25-inch transoms (the stern of the watercraft). When the shaft length is too long, there will be drag, while if the shaft is too short, it could lead to ventilation or potentially the overheating of the engine.

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Outboard Motor Anatomy: Part Two

Yesterday, we highlighted the main difference between two and four stroke motors—the fact that you have to mix your Evinrude XD100 oil and gasoline—and today we will go into more detail on the anatomy of the outboard engine itself. The motor contains all of the essential components: the engine, gearbox and propeller. Not only does the motor give the boat its power, but it is also used for steering and handling.

While both inboard and outboard motor can be raised, outboard motors also tilt forward, making them ideal for navigating shallow waters. Outboard motors can also be removed more easily, which is convenient when it comes time for storage. This capacity for removal and their lightweight design also makes out outboard motors easy to repair.

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Outboard Motor Anatomy: Part One

The two-stroke v. four-stroke debate is an ongoing point of contention between boat owners around the globe. While four-stroke engines certainly have their advantages, two-strokes are ideal for small watercrafts. In the next couple of days, we will be going over the various elements of the two-stroke engine and in what ways it is superior to the four-stroke.

When comparing the two, the most discernable difference for most people is how you mix the gasoline and outboard motor oil. In a two-stroke engine, the oil and the gasoline are mixed together, whereas they are held in separate compartments in a four-stroke. This design makes the two-stroke simpler but provides better lubrication to the four-stroke.

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The Merits of the Outboard Motor

Our focus in this blog is obviously on oil, and, to a certain extent, outboard motors. When purchasing a new boat, one of the most crucial decisions is whether to go with an outboard, inboard or inboard/outboard motor. While the other two certainly have their merits, outboard motors are my weapons of choice for a variety of reasons.

First of all, and probably most importantly, they are the cheapest option. They also tend to be lighter, and you can easily remove them when not being used, making them simple to replace as well. Traditionally, outboard motors were two-stroke, which meant that you had to mix the outboard motor oil and the gasoline; however, today there are several four-stroke options.

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Pre-Season Boat Checks

I know that it is only March, but I am already beginning to prepare for the upcoming boating season. The weather here is already beginning to reach temperatures that make a weekend boating excursion look attractive. Of course, before I launch my watercraft for the first time, some routine maintenance and checks need to be done.

Before embarking on the first boating trip of the year, I always check the fuel line for cracks, wear and loose attachments. I also check the tanks for any damage and ensure that there isn’t any water in the fuel. And, of course, I always double-check the levels of fuel and outboard motor oil.

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Marine Engine Wear and Tear

Every engine needs oil to maintain proper lubrication and preserve the integrity of the various moving components. This is particularly important for marine engines because of two factors that cause an unusual amount of wear and tear. First of all, outboard motor motors constantly run at a high RPM, and, on top of that, have to maintain their torque through waves and adverse conditions.

The fact that boats often go weeks, months or, in some cases, even years between uses doesn’t bode well for them either. Because of these constant strains on the engine, it is crucial to perform routine maintenance and change your outboard motor oil frequently. This will not only improve your boat’s performance, but will also prolong its life.

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Mercury Marine Company Overview

While Evinrude may get a lot of publicity, Mercury Marine is actually the world’s leading manufacturer of marine propulsion engines. Unlike other companies that produce complete watercrafts, Mercury focuses exclusively on engines, providing units for recreational, commercial and government usage. The company creates both Mercury and Mariner engines.

You won’t see Mercury Marine on the NYSE, but that’s because they are a division of Brunswick Corporation, who also owns Bayliner, Sea Ray and other leading marine manufactures. In addition to their award-winning engines, Mercury also produces a wide line of accessories and Mercury oil. The Mercury Marines mission statement outlines their commitment to excellence and their customers.

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Engine Oil Specs: Part One

For those of us who aren’t certified mechanics or spend every waking moment doing research on our vehicles, choosing the proper parts and products can often be a guessing game. When it comes to your outboard motor oil, however, there is no need to make guesses. There are testing associations in both the US and overseas that work to ensure oils meet certain standards and specifications.

In Europe, this group is comprised of 13 major manufacturers and known as the European Automobile Manufacturers Association, or the ACEA. Their US counterpart, the American Petroleum Institute (API), includes over 400 corporations and is responsible for producing service categories. In additions to the API, the US also has the American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM), which set limits on oil quality. Tomorrow we will go into more specifics about each organization and take a closer look at the information they provide.

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Changing Your Outboard Motor Oil

Most manufacturers recommend changing your outboard motor oil and filter after every 100 hours of use or every season, which ever comes first. Some people may postpone this task, but it is essential if you want to prolong the life of your boat and achieve optimal performance. Changing your oil may seem daunting, but with a few wrenches and some knowhow, you can get the job done in no time.

Always remember to drain all of the old oil before refilling the crankcase. Mixing old and new oils will leave deposits in the system and limit the effectiveness of the new oil. Also, be sure to add a quart of oil for the new filter and run the engine when you are done to ensure that the oil pressure is correct and there are no leaky areas.

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Boat Buying Tips

boatAside from your house or car, a boat is probably one of the biggest purchases that you will ever make. With that in mind, it is important to do some research before dropping thousands on a watercraft. One of the most important things to consider is whether you want an inboard or outboard motor.

Outboard boats tend to be less expensive and our good for fishing and other leisurely water activities, while an inboard is a near necessity for extreme water sports. In this down economy, many people are considering buying a used boat and saving some money. If you are considering this route, put the boat through a strict vetting before finalizing your purchase. Aside from inspecting the hull and outer surfaces, also examine the engine to ensure that the previous owner maintained the system with Evinrude XD 100 and other essential fluids.

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Two-Stroke Engine Basics: Part One

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There are three basic types of engines that are used in motor vehicles: gasoline; diesel and two-stroke. While the first two types are typically found in automobiles and other high-power vehicles, two-stroke engine are ideal for smaller crafts such as outboard motor boats, ATVs and snowmobiles. Gasoline and diesel engines use several of the same principles in their design and operation, but the two-stroke engine has some discernable differences:

~Two-stroke engines have no valves, which makes their construction more simple and lightweight

~Four-stroke engines fire every other cycle while two-strokes fire every revolution, giving them more power

~Since the outboard motor oil is mixed with the fuel, two-stroke engines will work in any orientation, which is important for handheld equipment

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