Outboard Maintenance Checklist for Florida Boaters (From a Marine Tech)
Heat, salt and ethanol fuel make Florida one of the toughest places on outboards. Here's the checklist we follow at Gann Marine. Always follow your engine manufacturer's service schedule first.
After every trip
- Flush with fresh water, especially after salt water.
- Rinse the engine and trailer.
- Check the tell-tale stream when you start up.
Every season (or 100 hours)
- Change the lower unit gear lube. Milky oil means water intrusion. Get it looked at before it becomes a gearcase replacement.
Quicksilver High Performance Gear Lube, 1 Quart$19.99, view details →
- Grease every fitting: steering, tilt tube, swivel bracket and propeller shaft splines.
Quicksilver 2-4-C Marine Grease with PTFE, 14 oz Cartridge$14.99, view details →
- Inspect fuel lines and the primer bulb for cracks and soft spots.
Attwood Universal Fuel Line Kit, 3/8 in. x 6 ft$39.99, view details →
- Treat fuel, especially before storage. Ethanol fuel absorbs water and goes stale.
Star brite Star Tron Enzyme Fuel Treatment, 16 oz$19.99, view details →
- Check anodes. Replace them when about half worn.
- Inspect spark plugs and replace them per the manual.
Every 2–3 years
- Replace the water pump impeller. A worn impeller is the top cause of overheating we see.
Outboard Water Pump Impeller Kit (by engine model)$59.99, view details →
Don't forget the trailer
Bearing Buddy Wheel Bearing Protectors (Pair)$29.99, view details →
Submersible LED Boat Trailer Light Kit (Under 80 in.)$74.99, view details →
Want us to do it instead? Gann Marine offers service in Central Florida. Call (352) 604-0577.