Necissary to winterize?

[Persnickety Platypus]

I have been told that it is not necissary to winterize my 2 stroke Mercury 9.9.<br /><br />Is this true?<br /><br />In my area it seldom drops below 20-25 degrees in winter (temp is usually above freezing). I intend on using my motor frequently, at least once a week. <br /><br />I know winterization is typically better, but I need full access to my motor during the winter months, and would rather not have to carry it inside after every use.<br /><br />If I don't need to winterize, is there something else I should still do with it during the colder months? Anything I need to do to the feul tank or lines?<br /><br />I don't know much, help is much appreciated. Thanks.

 

[rodbolt]

Re: Necissary to winterize?

winterizing an outboard is rather a misnomer.<br /> what your actually doing is protecting the subsystems,fuel,ign,cooling ect ect from degradation while in storage as well as protecting the shiny parts inside the powerhead and lower unit.<br /> as long as the drain holes in the powerhead and waterpump area are not clooged the cooling system is self draining if left upright.<br /> if your gonna use it weekly, then routine maint and leaving it in a running position should suffice.<br />keep your fuel fresh and water free and go play, the outboard doesnt care if its 20* or 90* if its well maintained.

 

[timmathis]

Re: Necissary to winterize?

Winterizing is for long term storage not for you!<br />It is always good to use a fuel stabilizer. Tim

 

[Texasmark]

Re: Necissary to winterize?

Agree.