Beginner question

[Zorbadog]

Hi All

Just about to buy my first boat which is a small 15ft motor cuddy, with a 45hp Honda engine. I have read that it is best to flush the engine through with fresh water after each outing, but wondered how this is possible on a tidal mooring.

thanks
Paul

 

[Rabbie]

Its not possible. You will have to get your engine ashore. However, I don't flush my outboard all season as I too am on a tidal mooring. Too much hassle.

 

[idomeneus5]

Hi from downunder, I've read "somewhere" in the last 2 months, about a "canvas bag contraption" that you submerse & then pull up around the the o/board leg, fill with fresh water, and run your engine (out of gear) from memory it was of a fairly stiff fabric so would not collapse, blocking the intake point. It wasn't an "aussie" product so unlikely I saw it out here, more likely I saw it in New products in PBO or M/boat. I've had yamahas evinrude/johnsons & mercruisers, albeit on trailerable boats (up to 26 ft) only time I flushed/ran them out of the water was after checking a new hot water system for leaks or fitting new control cables, so I wouldn't worry too much, more of a problem will be the fouling that takes place ! Try to leave the o/board tilted up as much as possible whilst on the mooring, also if you choose to antifoul the o/board make sure the product is suitable to use on the leg, as all antifouls are not the same. Regards Peter P.

 

[William_H]

An outboard will survive with a flush like once per season. My old Johnson has spent many seasons lying on the floor of my sail bhoat after use and without flushing. You may need to dismantle and clean out passages etc after a few years. It is always good to dismantle O/Bs just to ensure the bolts and sections will come apart because so often they are aluminium with stainless steel bolts with no protective sealant.
So get used to dismantling water pump at least. good luck olewill