With the new year quickly approaching, it’s time to prepare all your fun summer toys for the winter ahead. Caring for your outboard motor is essential if you want it to last for many years. Thus, you should follow these top tips for winterizing your outboard motor so that it doesn’t get frostbite.

Drain the Oil

Leaving dirty oil may severely hamper the lifespan of your outboard motor, making it crucial for you to drain it before it corrodes and causes some damage. You’ll want to fire up the engine with some garden hoses attached on both sides of your motor to warm up the oil for some efficient drainage.

Typically, there’s an oil sump drain plug near the motor’s leg that you can empty. But don’t forget to place a pan underneath it. Although it’s challenging because of the mess it creates, try to empty it as completely as possible.

Change Filters and Replace Oil

Now that you removed the oil from your outboard motor system, you must change the oil filter. Usually, these filters are easily removable, and you can spin them off with your hands. However, the more intricate ones may require a wrench to change them. Apply some oil on the O-ring before installing the new filter, tightening it until it can go no further.

With a clean filter in place, you can fill it with some new oil. Every outboard motor is different, so be sure to read over the owner’s manual for the correct type and amount of oil that it demands. Once you’re finished with that task, go ahead and change the fuel filter by following that same manual.

Empty the Lower Oil

Emptying the lower oil is somewhat like changing the oil in the crankcase. Start by putting your oil pan below the gearbox and gently removing the gasket and bottom plug. You’ll discover the stainless steel plug towards the prop. With the gasket and plug removed, some oil will begin to drip. Then, you can pull the top vent plug to get a steady oil flow from the drain hole.

Hopefully, your oil comes out with a translucent and greenish hue. A different color might be a sign that water infiltrated the gearbox. In such as case, you’ll need to seek some professional assistance. Depending on the size of your onboard, you can pump the oil in various ways. If your motor is smaller, you can squeeze the oil until it overflows from the top. For larger engines, it’s easier to use a pump. Use a new top plug once the oil is in and remove the nozzle. After that, you’ll be all set.

Flush With Antifreeze and Use Fogging Oil

The last step entails flushing the motor with antifreeze. This task prevents residual water from freezing over the winter. Additionally, use some fogging oil on your cylinders to extend your outboard’s lifespan, preventing it from rusting. Luckily, you can accomplish both tasks simultaneously, so they don’t necessitate an extravagant process.

These top tips for winterizing your outboard motor ensure that you get the most out of your investment. Bixby’s inventory is top-notch when it comes to outboard motor systems and other accessories you need along the way!