Out board tune-up?

murphoir

Cadet
Joined
Aug 12, 2007
Messages
15
I am very new to the world of boats so please excuse me if I appear to ask stupid questions. I have a 20hp mariner approximately +1986 short shaft and I was wondering if there is a way to increase the performance of it? If anyone can answer this then it would be most appreciated, many thanks Murphoir.......
 

tashasdaddy

Honorary Moderator Emeritus
Joined
Nov 11, 2005
Messages
51,019
Re: Out board tune-up?

basic maintainance, keeping good plugs, & wires, proper fuel mix, changing the lower unit oil every fall, changing the impeller every 2 years, periodic cleaning and rebuilding the carbs. other that the basics, having the proper set up between boat, engine height, and proper propeller, so that the engine runs at the optimum rpms, is about all that is necessary.
 

Silvertip

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Sep 22, 2003
Messages
28,771
Re: Out board tune-up?

Increasing the performance of an outboard is generally not worth the expense. Yes, a 20 and a 30 may share the same power head but there are often very expensive carburetor, manifold, exhaust porting, exhaust tuner and other parts involved. If you are unsatisfied with the power of your engine, you would be advised to invest in a bigger motor.
 

wbeaton

Commander
Joined
Jul 30, 2006
Messages
2,332
Re: Out board tune-up?

There are a few little things you can do to maximise performance, but in the end you won't gain any significant increases. Bigger motor is the only real way to improve your situation.
 
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