Boat Maintenance
When using your boat in the saltwater there are several important items to consider.
- Most marine engines are raw water cooled, this means the saltwater gets pumped through the engines cooling system, while the engine is running.
- This water is corrosive, and the residue left inside the engine, can damage it over time.
- Rinsing off the outside & properly flushing the inside of your marine engine will help to prolong its life.
- Flush ears or internal connections allow the engine, or engines to be run while connected to a fresh water supply.
- Most modern outboard engines have factory installed flushing ports, for easy access internal rinsing.
- Rinsing off the outside of your outdrive or outboards, also helps to reduce corrosion.
- Be careful not to get water in the areas it should not be, like the electrical system or air intake.
- It is a good practice to leave the hood or cowling on while rinsing off the outside of the engine.
- It is also good to periodically grease any grease fittings on the outdrive or outboard.
- A quality marine wax, can help protect the clear-coat painted finish on modern outboard engines.
- A good quality marine grease, used in moderation, will prolong bearing & pivot connections.
- Don’t forget the trailer, even if it is aluminum, a good rinse with fresh water, will help it last longer.
- If your trailer is Galvanized Steel, rinsing off the salt will help it last longer.
- Most fasteners on trailers are Stainless, when submerged in saltwater, this can create corrosion on the trailer.
A good rule of thumb is if its made out of metal, it should be rinsed off after use in salt water.