Saltwater Motor Help

[BigTime]

This may sound like a dumb question but bear with me. I am moving from Minnesota to North Carolina in a month and will be bringing my boat with. I have a 20' mod v jon boat with a 2000 Evinrude fict motor. I want to start fishing more saltwater but am unsure as to whether or not I can run that motor in slatwater. Can I with out any major issues?? I was told by a guy at the BP marine center in Charlotte I could so long as I flush the motor and hose everything down with freshwater. my boat, motor and trailer have only seen freshwater. Should I be able to get them out in saltwater with out any major isssues?? Any good advice you guys can give to prevent any costly mistakes/maintence<br /><br />Thanks!!!

 

[umblecumbuz]

Re: Saltwater Motor Help

Hi Bigtime,<br /><br />And welcome.<br /><br />Any metal corrodes in salt water faster than in fresh.<br /><br />Make sure you've got good salt-water zincs (ask your local marine store - they'll know what's best for your area).<br /><br />And take your mechanic's advice - flush everything well after each trip. Dry your boat and motor afterwards (a wet motor or hull will prolong galvanic action. A dry hull and motor is safe.)<br /><br />Keep your bilges and trailer dry.<br /><br />Ideally, store outfit under cover if possible.<br /><br />None of it's a big problem if you follow a few precautions. See FAQ's up top under 'Dealing With Corrosion...'

 

[Solittle]

Re: Saltwater Motor Help

Been running in salt for 35 years - no problem - follow stillfishing's advice.<br /><br />Don't forget to wash down the trailer & keep the bearings full of grease.<br /><br />Enough on the boat - Make sure you have current charts for the water you run in, get current weather forecasts, have a VHF if running off shore, keep your wits about you and leave the booze at home.

 

[umblecumbuz]

Re: Saltwater Motor Help

I always thought that booze helps keep corrosion at bay!<br /><br />The cans it comes in always seem bright and corrosion-free!