How to Fix Outboard Motors
Your boat gives you hours and hours of enjoyment and leisure each year. But owning a boat also requires the time and expense of maintaining and repairing its outboard motor. Paying a mechanic for every repair can leave your pockets a lot lighter. Learning to fix your outboard motor can save you the money and frustration of constant mechanic's visits. You won't be able to do all the repairs yourself, but there are many common problems you can learn to fix yourself.
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Things You'll Need
- Fuel treatment
- Socket wrench
- Oxyacetylene torch
- Pliers
- Replacement water pump
- Lubricant
Instructions
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1
Add a fuel treatment to the fuel mixture. This is an easy repair for a motor that sputters or fails to start up. Use an ethanol treatment, especially if you usually fill up at a gas station instead of a marina.
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2
Remove and replace the water pump located next to the thermostat on the engine if the boat overheats under operation. Begin by loosening the pump's securing bolts with a socket wrench.
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3
Heat the water pump's connecting line with an oxyacetylene torch. Remove the line. Remove the brass pins that hold the pump in place with a pair of pliers.
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4
Reverse the steps to install the new water pump. Lubricate all the parts to make the assembly smooth and easy. Reattach the connecting line, using the instructions and hardware that came with the new pump.
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5
Check the surrounding hoses and gaskets on the water pump often for signs of wear and damage. Replace these parts every season. Proper upkeep will prevent gas leaks and damage to the motor.
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Tips & Warnings
Make sure the motor has completely cooled before attempting to touch its parts.
