two cycle outboard oil | Outboard Motor Oil

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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Boat Engine Maintenance 101: Emissions

Emissions wreak havoc on the environment and pose a serious threat to those onboard your vessel. Luckily, you can work to minimize your emissions through a few simple maintenance procedures. The main hazard from your engine is carbon monoxide, which is difficult to detect because it is invisible and odorless. If you have water leaking out of the exhaust system, you can be sure that exhaust fumes are escaping as well.

In order to reduce your emissions, first look to the intercooler. Here, the air is cooled before it enters the engine, and although this is an integral component of the system, it is often overlooked. You’ll want to check these intercoolers regularly and be conscious of any water escaping from the exhaust system. If this is the case, you’ll probably want to take the craft to a professional. Also keep in mind that engines with premium oil, such as Evinrude XD 100, will run cleaner as well.

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How to Operate a Boat: Shifting, Steering and Stopping

Before you push away from the dock and open up the throttle, be sure you have reserve gasoline and outboard motor oil on your vessel. If you’re operating an outboard motor, the throttle arm will also act as a tiller. Remember, the boat will go in the opposite direction that you point the tiller. You should be able to get the hang of it rather quickly when you’re going forward, but be sure to exercise extra caution if and when you have to back up. Once the throttle arm is turned to “run” or “shift,” adjust the shift lever and turn the throttle handle until you reach your desired speed.

Unlike your car, a boat doesn’t have brakes. The only way to reduce your speed is by lowering the power, which is actually quite effective due to the immense resistance from the water. And don’t try to stop on a dime. Shift the engine down to neutral well before your stopping point. If need be, you can give it a little more juice to get your all the way there.

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Winterizing Your ATV: Part Four

Yesterday we discussed the importance of using premium synthetic oil in your ATV, but we neglected to say what to look for. The criteria for a premium ATV oil is much the same as outboard motor oil; in cold weather conditions the pour point is the most critical variable, which tells you the lowest temperature at which the oil will be effective. Once you have filled your engine with top-tier oil, it’s time to check out the battery.

Particularly if you are just taking the machine out of storage, it’s a good idea to check the battery to ensure the charge is adequate. You may need to attach the unit to a charger if it is low, but be sure to make sure it holds the charge before your head out. The fuel tank has a tendency to collect condensation in cold weather, which then has the potential to freeze, so be sure to keep the tank as full as possible at all times.

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Winterizing Your Boat: Part Four

In an early post in this series I said to drain all of the fuel from the tank. This is a necessary procedure, but there are two schools of thought when it comes to what to do after this process. Some manufacturers say to disconnect the fuel hose and run the engine until all of the fuel is gone and leave the boat in that condition for storage. Others say to refill the tank with fuel and add a fuel treatment product to prevent condensation from building in the tank.

If you take the latter route, you will obviously want to make sure you add the proper ratio of outboard motor oil as well. The best way to determine which method to employ is simply to consult your owner’s manual. During the process of preparing the fuel tank, however, you will always want to change the fuel filters and the water separators.

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Basic Outboard Maintenance: Part Four

One of the most perilous times for your boat is the transfer from dry land to the water. This often involves a lengthy drive and being in reverse when the end of your trailer is over 20 feet away. Particularly when you’re backing your boat, the motor is extremely susceptible, so it’s imperative to take some precautionary measures to make sure your boat makes it into the water in one piece.

First, always make sure your vessel is topped off with fuel and outboard motor oil before you reach the marina. When backing the boat towards the water, always have a spotter outside the boat to guide you. If you are unfamiliar with launching your boat, it’s a good idea to take some dry runs in the driveway before you try the real thing. Use your mirrors as you are reversing, moving the steering wheel in the direction you want the back to go.

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3-Bladed v. 4-Bladed Propellers

For years, three-blade propellers have been the standard issue for virtually all boat motors. But on certain boats, particularly bigger ones, a four-blade propeller can offer some distinct advantages, so their usage is becoming more and more common. Although three-blade propellers will be faster at full throttle, most of the time four-blade propellers are more stable and efficient, meaning you spend less on gas and outboard motor oil.

The overall increased surface area of the blades on a four-blade prop make planing easier, which is particularly useful when you are pulling skiers or wakeboarders. This large amount of blade area also reduces vibrations, making for a smoother ride on all levels. There is no cut-and-dry method for choosing which propeller is best for your vessel; there are simply too many variables in the equation.

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How to Choose Your Outboard Motor Oil

If you only take your boat out once in a blue moon, you probably don’t care too much about which types of motor oil you choose—and you probably wouldn’t have stumbled upon this blog post either. Avid boaters know the importance of choosing top tier outboard motor oil. But with literally dozens of choices on store shelves, how do you know which one is right for you?

The most important thing to look for is , which ensures the oil meets a set of rigorous standards set forth by the NMAA. Most manufacturers offer at least one oil that meets TC-W3 standards; the main difference across brands is the additives. Personally, I like to follow the logic that the manufacturer knows their engine best, so they should also be able to create the best oil for it. When it boils down to it though, as long as your oil is TC-W3 certified, you’re in the clear.

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Preventative Outboard Motor Care: Part Five

After you’ve inspected the fuel line, move on to the fuel primer bulb and fuel line fittings. Lastly, check the tank vent to ensure the unit is aspirating properly and there isn’t any water in the fuel. Turn off the engine and the battery, and open the engine cover to check for any leaking fuel or water.

Lubricate all of the moving parts—the carburetor valves, shift and throttle cables, etc. Assuming you have a two-stroke engine, you’re going to need to mix the fuel with outboard motor oil before you refill the tank. Always be sure to use premium certified oil, such as Evinrude XD 100 oil. Once you’re finished, throw the cover on the engine to keep it safe during storage and transportation.

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Preventative Outboard Motor Care: Part One

Now that the sun is shining and the days are long, taking time to care for your engine is probably not high on your priority list. And why should it bet; the summer is the time to go out and enjoy your vessel, not spend hours in the garage tuning your engine. However, if you neglect to care for your outboard motor, your time on the water could be fraught with disaster. Personally, I like to do my maintenance in the winter to maximize my boating time when the weather is fair.

From overheating and spent spark plugs to corrosion and rusting, a litany of mechanical problems can plague your motor. Luckily, preventing damage to your outboard motor is relatively simple and won’t take hours on end. You obviously want to change your outboard motor oil regularly, but this is only one of the necessary maintenance procedures. Over the next couple of days, we’ll overview a simple maintenance routine to help keep your engine up and running.

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