If you own a Suzuki outboard motor and often navigate saltwater, taking extra care of your motor is essential for its longevity and performance. Saltwater can be harsh on engines, but with the right maintenance practices, you can keep your outboard running smoothly for years to come. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you care for your engine effectively.
Flush Your Engine Regularly
After each outing, it’s vital to flush your engine to remove salt and debris. Use a quality “ear muff” style flushing adapter that fits your lower unit water pick-up or flushing port (when available). Run your engine at idle speed in neutral for at least five minutes. This simple step helps prevent corrosion and keeps your engine in top condition. For detailed instructions, refer to your owner’s manual, which also includes important safety precautions.
Keep It Clean and Protected
A good wash goes a long way. Carefully wash your outboard engine with mild soap and water to remove salt and other deposits. After cleaning, apply a quality marine wax to seal and protect the finish against sun damage and salt. Regular washing not only keeps your engine looking great but also helps prevent long-term damage.
Treat with Silicone Spray
Every second or third trip, consider removing the hood of your outboard (ensuring the engine is off and cool) and applying a thin film of silicone spray to the power head , this provides additional protection.
Address Nicks and Scratches Promptly
Frequent inspections of your outboard are essential. Look for nicks and scratches where corrosion can begin. Touch up any superficial scratches with color-matched paint, and for deeper scratches, apply a top-quality metal primer before painting.
Store Your Engine Wisely
To protect your engine from UV damage, store it out of direct sunlight whenever possible or you can purchase an Engine Cover for your outboard. We offer two style, one for you to put on your engine after use and one that you can use while the engine is running. Both provide the same coverage just one you remove prior to use and the other you can use while running your motor. This simple measure can help preserve the exterior components and finish of your engine.
Regularly Grease Key Points
Your Suzuki outboard features special grease fittings designed to prevent corrosion at critical pivot and swivel point the nipple. Recommend using a grease gun to apply grease through these fittings regularly, as specified in your owner’s manual. Don’t forget to periodically remove the propeller and grease the propeller shaft as well!
Replace Sacrificial Zinc Anodes
Zinc anodes are vital for protecting your engine from corrosion. They need to be replaced as recommended in your owner’s manual or when they reduce to less than 50% of their original size. In particularly corrosive saltwater areas, adding an extra zinc anode below the water line may be advisable.
Explore More Resources
By following these maintenance tips, you’ll not only extend the life of your Suzuki outboard but also enhance its performance on the water. For more resources, products, and expert advice tailored to your outboard needs, please contact us so we can assist you with all your boating needs at 561-562-6441 or email us at: support@boatmaxonline.com.
We’re here to help you enjoy every moment on the water!