How to Operate an Outboard Engine
Tracker Boats Safety Series
[vimeo:e68fb082-281c-4105-944f-6c31150
Captain’s Report
Chapter 4 – Managing an Outboard
Outboard motors are a great part of boating and they seem to be getting better all the time. Like any engine, they need a little attention and care to ensure long, trustworthy service. Knowing the basics of how an outboard works will help take some of the guesswork out of keeping the boat running as it should. As always, the owner’s manual is the best place to get questions answered about a specific motor. But here are a few tips to keep that outboard purring, and help the owner keep his or her crew safe, every time.
Cooling System. The cooling water intake is in the lower unit of your outboard. That means that the engine must be tilted down into the water for it to cool properly, unless the boater is flushing the engine after a day on the water, and then only with great caution. Never attempt to start the engine unless it’s tilted down into the water. Doing so can be dangerous if anyone is near the propeller and can cause damage to vital cooling parts or seize the engine.
Built-In Fuel-Tank Vent. You might want to check the vent to make sure it has not become blocked. Check your owner’s manual for the location of the fuel vent. Most have a screen to prevent insects or small animals from entering. The screens can become clogged. Light brushing with an old toothbrush can clear the screen.
Before Starting
Stop Switch and Safety Lanyard. If this switch is not in the proper position, the engine will not start. By properly setting the lanyard stop switch to the run position and attaching the other end to a belt loop or life jacket, the system will allow the engine to start. This is a safety feature, designed to immediately stop the engine if you leave your seat for any reason, intentionally or by accident. This is an important, possibly life-saving feature. NEVER start the engine without using it.
Starting Procedure
Starting the outboard is a simple procedure, but it’s best to be familiar with the steps outlined in the owner’s manual, as the advice here is good general guidance.
In-Gear Release Button. By pressing the in-gear release button, the operator can increase the throttle without shifting into gear, allowing the engine to rev in neutral. When you come back to neutral, the lockout releases and normal shifting resumes. This procedure may be slightly different if your boat is equipped with a SmartCraft® Digital Throttle and Shift system, or DTS. DTS is standard equipment on Mercury Verados and optional on other Mercury engines. Other outboard manufacturers utilize similar features. Be sure by checking the owner’s manual specific to the boat and outboard setup.
If the Engine Does Not Start. If the engine doesn’t start within about 10 seconds, stop cranking, recheck the fuel line, pump the bulb again and double check the safety stop switch. Wait about 30 seconds, then try again. Prolonged cranking can overheat and damage your starter, so don’t overdo it. If nothing happens when you turn a key, the shifter is probably not set to the neutral detent. All marine engines have an in gear starting lockout that prevents you from starting the motor when it’s in gear. Make sure the lever is in neutral and try again.
Warm Up. Allow the engine to warm up for a few minutes before pulling back to idle speed. Check to be sure you have water pressure for the engine cooling.
No or Low Water Pressure. If there is no indication of water pressure after about a minute, or pressure is low, you may have a problem with your cooling system. Follow these steps:
1. Shut off the engine.
2. Trim up the engine and check the water intakes.
3. Make sure the intakes are free of weeds, mud or debris.
Blocked water intakes are the most common cause for this malfunction, and can occur any time you are out on the water. If you get a warning buzzer, high heat indication, or low water pressure at any time, stop the motor, trim up and check the intakes.
As with any piece of complex equipment, it’s best to get familiar with the operation of an outboard motor by reading the owner’s manual. Understanding the basic steps of using the motor will become second nature with experience, and trouble-shooting problems will be a simple exercise, provided the outboard is properly maintained.