Tip #1

Gasoline with ethanol absorbs water from the atmosphere at an alarming rate and the moisture condenses and sits at the bottom of the fuel tank which is drawn into your fuel system causing poor running.  To avoid this potential repair follow these do's and dont's.

Do

• Install a water separator filter
• Use the fuel within a 2 - 3 week period
• Keep your fuel tanks in a cool dry place

Don't

• Store gas in a hot sunny place
• Allow your inboard tank to remain half empty for long periods of time

If you suspect your gas has water in it always dispose of it in an environmentally friendly manner!

Tip #2

Is your propeller damaged and does it really need to replaced?  You bet it does!  A bent or damaged propeller can not only affect your boat's performance, it can damage the propeller shaft and your lower unit.  So even if you think it doesn't look that bad it's alway best to run your boat with a good propeller!

Tip #3

No one wants to see their waterline snaking through the trees down to the lake but we recommend that you DO NOT bury it!  Frost can heave and move rocks causing punctures that you cannot see.  Save yourself the extra time you would spend diagnosing your no water situation by always leaving your line exposed.

Tip #4

You just got to the cottage and your outboard has sunk! Here is what to do: First, don't panic. Second, never raise the motor if the powerhead is submerged unless you can have it serviced right away. As the motor dries parts can seize causing expensive damage.  Third, take it to a qualified Marine Engine Technician who will empty the carburetors and purge the fuel system right away!

Tip #5

Planning on trailering your boat this summer?  New laws are in place so make sure that you are tied down and ensure your lighting works and is in compliance with current law!  Also, don't travel without your trailer ownership and insurance.

Tip #6

If you notice white residue on the below water portion of your engine you should be replacing your anodes!  The residue is your clue that the aluminum of your engine is corroding - the anodes take the hit so your motor doesn't.

Tip #7

Want to protect your investment and make sure that your boat always looks great?  To look it's best a boat should be thoroughly cleaned, waxed and polished every year.  Cleaning and waxing your boat protects against UV damage and degradation of fibreglass. 

Tip # 8

Have you changed your water pump impeller lately?

One of the most overlooked items during winterization is replacing the water impeller on your engine.  The manufacturers recommend that you change them every 2-3 years.  The water impeller draws outside water to cool your engine.  Unfortunately, damage caused by a worn impeller can be quite extensive.  It will usually cause the engine to overheat which can lead to problems with the cylinder valves, pistons, and even crack the block, leading to a large repair bill.  These repairs are generally not covered by warranties or service contracts.

The average cost to replace an impeller is $250.00 compared to a repair cost of $4000.00 to $5000.00 or more without replacement.  If you have never changed your impeller, or are unsure when it was replaced last, it is probably time.  The easiest time to change an impeller is during winterization, so you may want to consider it for the fall when you bring your boat in to Harcourt Park Marina.