Outboard motors work great in saltwater. However, there are some maintenance considerations you need to be aware of if you’re going to use your outboard in saltwater. If you don’t maintain your outboard properly, it will corrode and break down much faster than it would in freshwater.
There are a few considerations when it comes to using an outboard in saltwater. First, you need to make sure that your motor is corrosion-resistant. If it’s not, you’ll need to coat it with a waterproof sealant before taking it into the salt.
Second, you’ll need to flush the motor after each use and lubricate all of the moving parts with a corrosion-resistant lubricant. Finally, you’ll need to replace the motor’s gearcase oil with saltwater-rated oil. NMMA FC-W has laid some guidelines for the oil type you should use in your outboard’s gearcase.
Are Outboard Engines Good In Saltwater?
Yes, outboard engines are good in saltwater. Modern outboards are manufactured with corrosion-resistant materials and coatings, so they will last longer if used in saltwater. However, there are some maintenance considerations you need to be aware of.
Usage of marine-grade alloys, stainless steel, anodizing, and other corrosion-resistant finishes help to make modern outboards more resistant to the corrosive effects of saltwater. However, even with these advances, it is important that proper maintenance be performed to ensure the longest possible life for your outboard engine.
Is Outboard Engine Durable In Saltwater?
Outboard engines are durable in saltwater as long as they are properly maintained. Corrosion-resistant materials and coatings help to make modern outboards more resistant to the corrosive effects of saltwater. However, even with these advances, it is important that proper maintenance be performed to ensure the longest possible life for your outboard engine. If you don’t maintain your outboard properly, it will corrode and break down much faster than it would in freshwater.
How Saltwater Affects Your Outboards?
Saltwater can have a negative effect on your outboard motor if it’s not properly taken care of. The salt will corrode the metal parts of the motor and cause it to rust. It can also cause the rubber seals and gaskets to deteriorate, which will lead to water infiltration and eventual failure of the motor.
The salt present in this water will enter the engine through the air intake and start corroding internal parts like the piston, cylinder, and crankcase. As these parts corrode, they will cause more damage to other internal components until the engine seizes or stops running altogether.
Saltwater can also cause the crankshaft in outboard motors to corrode. The crankshaft is a metal shaft that rotates to create motion. It’s lubricated with oil, and the oil is also responsible for cooling the engine.
When the crankshaft corrodes, it will cause the oil to deteriorate and the engine will overheat. The corrosion will also cause the metal parts to wear down faster, which will eventually lead to the failure of the engine.
Saltwater can also cause the pistons in outboard motors to corrode. The pistons are a component of the engine that moves up and down to create compression and combustion. Saltwater corrosion of pistons affects the engine’s ability to create compression and can cause the engine to lose power or fail altogether.
Saltwater can corrode the electrical parts in an outboard motor, leading to problems with the engine. The salt can also cause the wiring to rust, creating a fire hazard. If you use your outboard in saltwater, be sure to clean it regularly and check for signs of corrosion or damage. If you notice any problems, take your boat to a mechanic right away. Using an outboard in saltwater can also shorten the life of the engine. So if you’re not planning on using your boat in saltwater often, it might be better to invest in a motor that is designed for use in saltwater.
How Often Should You Flush Outboards?
As, a general rule of thumb, you should flush your outboard motor after every use. This will help remove any salt or dirt that may have gotten into the engine and cause corrosion.
You should also lubricate all of the moving parts with a corrosion-resistant lubricant after every flush. This will help keep the engine running smoothly and prevent any damage from saltwater corrosion.
What Type of Oil Should You Use in an Outboard’s Gearcase?
The type of oil you use in your outboard’s gearcase is important for several reasons. First, different oils have different viscosities or thicknesses. Thinner oils flow more easily and can help prevent corrosion, while thicker oils provide better protection against wear. Second, some gearcase oils contain additives that help protect against corrosion and degradation.
It’s important to consult your outboard’s owner’s manual to find out what type of oil is best for your engine. You should also check with your local dealer or a qualified marine mechanic. In general, however, most saltwater-flooded outboards require gearcase oils that are formulated specifically for use in saltwater. These oils typically have higher viscosities and contain more corrosion-resistant additives than oils designed for use in freshwater.
If your outboard has been damaged by saltwater, it’s important to have the gearcase cleaned and flushed before re-oiling. This can be a difficult job, so it’s best to leave it to a qualified marine mechanic.
What if My Outboard Is Already Damaged with Saltwater?
If your outboard has already been damaged by salt water, it’s important to act quickly. Rinse the engine with fresh water as soon as possible and remove any visible corrosion. You’ll also want to have a professional inspect the engine for further damage. In some cases, it may be possible to repair the outboard; in others, you may need to replace it altogether.
Always check for low RPM and overheating and if you have those issues take it to a mechanic ASAP.
When To Buy a New Outboard?
If you’re not sure whether or not to buy a new outboard, it’s important to consult with a qualified marine mechanic. They can help you assess the damage and determine whether or not it’s worth repairing or replacing your engine.
They can also advise you on which outboard would be best for your boat and how to maintain it properly.
In general, you should replace your outboard if it’s been damaged by saltwater corrosion. The cost of repairing a saltwater-damaged engine can be prohibitive, and it’s often cheaper to buy a new one. However, there are some cases where repairing an outboard is the best option. It all depends on the extent of the damage and your budget.
If you’re planning on using your boat in saltwater, it’s important to invest in an outboard that is designed for use in saltwater. These engines typically have higher viscosities and contain more corrosion-resistant additives than freshwater outboards.
Tips To Save Your Outboard Motors In Saltwater
If you have an outboard motor, it’s important to take care of it so that it lasts. Here are some tips on how to do just that:
– Make sure you use the correct type of oil in your motor. Using the wrong type of oil can cause damage.
– In order to protect your motor from corrosion, it’s a good idea to coat it with a light layer of wax after each use.
– Inspect your motor regularly for any signs of corrosion. If you see any, clean it immediately and apply a corrosion-resistant coating.
– Keep your motor well-lubricated. This will help to prevent corrosion and keep your motor running smoothly.
After coming out of salt water, it’s important to flush the engine with fresh water. This will help to remove any salt or dirt that may have accumulated. It’s also a good idea to apply a corrosion-resistant coating to the engine to help protect it from the elements.
By following these simple tips, you can help to extend the life of your outboard motor and keep it running like new.
Conclude
There are no issues with using your outboard in saltwater. Saltwater can be harsh on outboard motors, causing corrosion and damage that can lead to expensive repairs. However, by following these simple tips, you can help to protect your motor from the elements and keep it running like new. So before hitting the water this summer, make sure to take steps to protect your investment and enjoy a worry-free boating experience.
Clifford Slater is a seasoned writer with over 25 years of experience in boats and fishing trips. With his extensive knowledge and expertise in boats and fishing, he has become a recognized authority in the industry. Clifford has made it a point to regularly visit popular fishing destinations such as Florida and other places in the USA to stay up to date with the latest trends and techniques in the field.
Over the years, Clifford has acquired a wealth of knowledge about boats and fishing, which he has shared through his writing. His articles and books are widely read by fishing enthusiasts and professionals alike, and his insights are highly valued by those seeking to improve their skills in the field. Clifford’s passion for boats and fishing is evident in his writing, and his readers appreciate the depth of his expertise and his ability to communicate complex topics in an engaging and accessible way.
Clifford Slater’s impressive credentials and dedication to his craft make him a trusted authority in the world of boats and fishing. His commitment to staying up to date with the latest developments in the industry, combined with his deep knowledge and understanding of the subject matter, ensures that his writing is always informative and valuable. For those seeking to improve their skills or simply enjoy the beauty of the sea, Clifford’s writing is a must-read.
