Owning and caring for a boat is a source of undeniable adventure and excitement. Whether cruising along serene lakes or riding the salty waves of the ocean, your boat’s outboard engine is its heart, propelling you into your next aquatic journey. To ensure your boat looks its best and maintains its value, you have to take care of its outboard engine. Here are four simple tips to keep your outboard engine looking and performing like new.

Rinse and Clean It

You should follow these regular cleaning tasks to keep your outboard engine shiny and fresh:

• After each use, wash and rub down your engine with soapy water and a nonabrasive microfiber mitt. This will promptly remove any grime and dirt that accumulated during your ride.
• After every wash, treat your engine to some spray-on wax. While this wax shouldn’t be the engine’s main layer of protection, it brings out the shine and makes your motor sparkle.
• Every three months, give your outboard engine a nice, thorough coating of paste wax. Using paste is very important, as its thickness will effectively safeguard your engine.

Perform Routine Maintenance

Other than consistent cleaning, perform these simple tips for regular maintenance to keep your outboard engine looking new. Do these tasks after each trip:

• Check for cracks, corrosion, and other damage.
• Flush the motor.
• Wipe down all parts with an anticorrosive.
• Replace the fuel.

Cover It Up

Cover up your outboard motor when it’s not in use. Ultraviolet rays, transport, and natural wear and tear can damage the engine’s finish. Various types of covers are available to keep your motor safe all season long, helping it last for hundreds of hours of use.

Properly Store It

During the offseason, make sure to store and winterize your motor properly by performing the following steps: 

• Change the oil and oil filter. 
• Drain the fuel and change the fuel filter.
• Flush the engine and use an antifreeze solution that will lubricate and protect the equipment. 

After completing the winterization, be sure to store the engine in a tilted-down position, as this will protect it from harsh elements that can plague your boat. No matter how long you put your boat in storage, ensuring proper seasonal care will maintain the value of your outboard engine and allow you to sail for years to come. 

At RJ Nautical, we are here to help with all your motor needs. We offer a wide range of outboard engines to propel your boat into the adventure of a lifetime! If you are looking for a motor that will last for years, consider a spirit outboard motor, an electric engine that doesn’t rely on fuel to run properly. This will ultimately boost the value of your watercraft and give you the best possible experience on the waves.