Gulf oil spill and outboard motors

[Navy Jr.]

Please forgive me if this has been asked before; I couldn't find it.

This question exposes my total ignorance in these matters, but when I see video of outboard boats in gulf waters with oil sheen floating on top I can't help but wonder how that oily water doesn't clog up the cooling passages of the motor. Has it something to do with "salt water" designed motors versus "fresh water." Are salt water motors built stronger? Just curious. -Ken

 

[coolguy147]

Re: Gulf oil spill and outboard motors

i can the motors getting dirty but getting clogged?

oil floats.

water intake below water surface.

i didnt know oil would clog a motor?

 

[tmcalavy]

Re: Gulf oil spill and outboard motors

I would think clogging/sliming the intake screen would be the real problem.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Gulf oil spill and outboard motors

I would guess the oil coating the cooling water passages in the engine would actually protect it from the corrosive effects of the salt water. Unless you ran through a foot deep layer of this goo I doubt it would clog the engine. The oil may deteriorate the rubber impeller however.