bulk motor oil | Outboard Motor Oil - Part 2

Storing Bulk Oil

We previously posted about the savings associated with purchasing motor oil in bulk, but what do you do once you have a 50 gallon barrel of oil? Obviously, you’re not going to use the motor oil all at once, so you need to properly store it. A shed or sheltered facility that is cool and free from moisture is an ideal storage spot.

Oil drums can leak, so you may want to store your bulk oil in an oil tank. These tanks tend to be more durable. Still, leaks can occur so check your oil tanks regularly for leaks. Clean up all spills immediately and replace or patch up leaking containers.

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Beginners Guide to Outboard Motors Part 3

One question that probably isn’t asked enough is how does an outboard motor work? They are complex systems created by brilliant engineers to accomplish a herculean task with little to no effort. As the primary propulsion system for most boats, outboard motors are often taken for granted by boaters and water-going enthusiasts of all kinds. That is until it breaks down. You can help yourself avoid this pitfall by learning how your motor works.

Not only will you learn how it functions you’ll also learn how to better care for it. Regular maintenance will become more intuitive and good habits for regular use will develop. Outboard motors are small, self-contained engines with propellers and other systems designed to make the motor work efficiently. Most work in a way similar to internal combustion engines and therefore require similar care and attention. Take the time to learn as much about an outboard motor before you buy one and you’ll be better qualified to make a good decision that you won’t end up regretting.

If you choose a Yamaha you can maximize its performance with a good supply of Yamalube 2W oil.

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Environmentally Friendly Boating Tip 6

One thing that can’t be stressed enough is recycling. Recycle, recycle, recycle. This is one of the biggest, easiest ways everyone can contribute to environmental conservation. What does recycling mean to boaters? Well, in addition to keeping your trash out of waterways and off of coastlines, it means the proper disposal of batteries, paints and other chemicals. 12V batteries are one of the most recycled products on the planet. Any hazardous wastes must be disposed of properly and in accordance with local laws and regulations.

Many marinas and shops will offer a credit for an old battery when purchasing a new one. This is a nice incentive to anyone replacing a battery and also helps keep batteries out of landfills. In addition, never pump sewage out when you are near the shore. Check local regulations for specifics, but most marinas offer pump-out stations for proper waste disposal. And don’t forget to buy bulk oil for maximum savings this season.

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Fuel Economy Tip 6

Our sixth installment of fuel saving tips for boating enthusiasts is another critical step in ensuring you’re spending less at the pump this boating season. It’s really a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised at how often people forget this important money saving piece. It’s absolutely essential that you get to know and understand all of your gauges. When you know your gauges you’ll be able to better study them.

Readings like speed, rpm and fuel consumption will give you the information you need to easily find your boat’s ideal planning speed. If you’ve installed a fuel flow meter you can even monitor fuel usage in real time. This gives you a huge advantage as it allows for accurate adjustment of trim and throttle. The bottom line is, the better you know your gauges the better equipped you’ll be to make navigational and operational decisions while on the water. And don’t forget the optimum outboard motor oil to further maximize your fuel savings.

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East Coast Escapes Yearly Storms

Neither of this year’s category-4 hurricanes, Danielle and Earl, made landfall on the Atlantic Coast during the late-summer storm cycle. But that doesn’t mean residents didn’t feel the effects of the two very powerful tropical storms. 70-80 mph winds were reported in both the Outer Banks and in some New England states as the two storms slid up the coastline. If Earl had not weakened and remained 85 miles off shore, it would have torn through the Outer Banks with catastrophic effect.

Danielle, on the other hand, stayed several hundred miles of shore and had less of an effect on coastal communities as the two storms went up the East Coast in August and September. This comes as good news to avid boaters in the Eastern United States who will be able to enjoy this season’s shorelines without having to rebuild from a cataclysmic hurricane season. I know I’ll be taking my boat out as soon as possible, that’s why I’ve already stocked up on boat motor oil for the season to come.

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Advantages of Two-Stroke Engines

Most devices with lower-power applications—such as gardening equipment, ATVs and small outboard motors—use a two-stroke engine, as opposed to a four-stroke. Two-strokes offer some distinct advantages over their four-stroke counterparts. First, a two-stroke engine doesn’t require any valves. This makes the unit much less complex, allowing for a smaller, lightweight construction. Also, two-stroke engines fire on every revolution, creating consistent power; four-strokes only fire every other cycle.

Finally, two-stroke engines will run no matter which way they are oriented. Because the gasoline and bulk oil is mixed in the engine, both fluids will always be in the system. This isn’t the case with four-stroke motors, where the oil is held is a discrete reservoir. Over the next few days, we’ll be covering the basics of two-stroke engines, including the steps in the engine cycle.

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Why Buy in Bulk?

If you spend the better part of the summer months out on your boat, it makes sense to invest in some bulk outboard motor oil. Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Bulk oil, isn’t that for marinas?” True, but recreational boaters can save significant money by purchasing their oil in bulk too. As long as the oil stays in the container with the cap on, it stays good for an incredible amount of time.

Even if you don’t think you can use the oil by yourself, it makes sense to gather a few of your boating buddies and invest in some bulk oil together. You’ll save hundreds of dollars over the next few boating seasons. And since you can buy bulk oil in gallon bottles, you won’t have to worry about the batch going bad for decades.

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How to Operate a Boat: The Basics

Whether you just bought your first boat or just plan to ride along as a passenger, learning the boating basics is a good idea for anyone who is going to be out on the water. Even if you aren’t planning to drive, you never know when an emergency will arise—or the skipper will want to take a turn being towed.

If you’re not riding in your own vessel, be sure to learn the basics of the craft when you get on. This should include locating the fire extinguisher and emergency supplies and learning how to start it up—although you should be able to do that after our crash course. Over the next few days we’ll be covering the essentials of boating—from how to properly check outboard motor oil and gasoline, to basic driving operations.

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Boat Ownership: Part One

The decision to purchase a boat shouldn’t be taken lightly. Along with your home and automobile, it will undoubtedly be one of the biggest single purchases you ever make. And the initial investment in the boat is just the beginning; then there is insurance, licensing, gas, outboard motor oil and the routine upkeep to take care of.

Since there are so many factors to mull over, I thought we’d give a quick crash course on what to take into consideration when you are thinking about investing in your own vessel. Over the next couple of days, we’ll be covering everything from selecting your hull and motor type, to acquiring the proper licenses and certifications.

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Basic Outboard Maintenance: Part Five

We still have at least of few weeks of boating season left, but I figured it was important to discuss how to winterize and prepare your outboard motor for storage. It’s essential to take the proper precautions when  to ensure it starts up easily next spring. Before your last outing of the season, add some fuel conditioner to your mix of fuel and Evinrude XD 100 oil.

Always drain the system of all the gas and oil before putting the boat into storage, as the fuel will go bad if it just sits for months. If your lower unit calls for periodic lubrication changes, this is the time to do it. Look over the entire motor to ensure all of the bolts and fittings are in place and taut. Finally, put the motor in a dry place and keep it well covered, as small animals love to nest up in the crevices during the winter.

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Basic Boat Trailering: Part Two

The first time you back your boat into the water it can certainly be daunting; I mean, it’s not everyday your supposed to back your vehicle towards a body of water. When you’re launching your boat, your trailer will obviously have to be submerged in the water. For some reason—unbeknownst to me—various trailer lights aren’t waterproof, which can lead to short-circuiting when they get wet. As such, always opt for the waterproof option.

If it’s your first time launching your boat (and even if you’ve done it hundreds of times), it’s a good idea to have someone get out and help guide you into the water. It doesn’t matter if the tires of the trailer get in the water, but you’ll want to avoid submerging the wheel hubs, which can lead to rust and corrosion. Once the boat can float, undo all of the ties and cables attaching it to the trailer and secure it to the dock. That probably seemed easy, so tomorrow we’ll go over the more difficult task: getting the boat back on the trailer.  Make sure you have all your essentials in the boat, life jackets, drinking water, cell phone and extra outboard motor oil.

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