okay to store motor on it's side?

[dougworm]

I have a little 14'long 6' beam 300 llb sailboat that I want to have the option of slapping on a small outboard whenever I want to (or HAVE TO!). The sailboat's rudder layout and small transom makes it impractical to consider having motor mounted fulltime and because it is such a small boat my only storage option really is just to keep the motor in a plastic bag lashed in the space under the deck at the bow ... this would mean the motor would be sideways ... just laying on it's side. Is that advisable? Would that limit my choice in motors to a 2 stroke only? Any particular model or brand that would be best suited the above? Would I have to drain the fuel out every time I stow it, or are there motors with vapor tight fuel systems where I could just close a petcock or something and then stow it? ... If this whole idea is impossible then I know my only other option is electric ... but batteries are HEAVY and when they "run out of gas" I can't just pour more in NOW! LOL. Thanks in advance to anyone willing to help me!<br /><br />Doug

 

[AMD Rules]

Re: okay to store motor on it's side?

I've no idea about the "proper" techniques for a typical motor, but when you mentioned stowing it up front in your sailboat, the folding evinrude popped into my head: folding evinrude @ eBay<br />Your concern regarding fuel vapors sounds valid. I would take all precautions necessary to ensure you eliminate any risk.

 

[roscoe]

Re: okay to store motor on it's side?

Every small (2-4hp) motor I have seen will have a sealed fuel filler cap, and a petcock to shut off fuel flow to the carburator. The only gas that could leak out would be the small amount already in the carb. You can always turn the gas supply off and run the carb dry before stowing the motor.<br /><br />We stow a 2.2hp Merc in the bow of our boat, just in case we need it.<br /><br />A small 4 stroke motor will be very expensive in comparison to a 2 stroke. Prices are more equal as the hp goes up.<br /><br />If you are interested in a 4 stroke, you will need to check with each manufacturer on horizontal storage. Most will allow it, but on which side or in what exact position, will vary.