Posts: 677
Location: Twin Cities, MN | I got this from Don on BBC. Some good tips here.
Many have asked about Winterizing and/or performing Annual Maintenance on their Optimax Engines.
Here's a list of what we perform here in our shop (and recommend) as "Once per year, or EVERY 100 HOURS, WHICHEVER OCCURS FIRST":
-Computer Diagnostic (to read Run History and Freeze Frame "Fault" History). Run cylinder misfire test (*A compression test here is also a good idea).
-Ensure fuel is properly stabilized
-Test run engine long enough to get stabilizer through system. At idle: 30 minutes! In the water, under load: 10+ minutes.
-Test or inspect Thermostats. Verify proper cooling (including telltale stream)
-Verify Engine Mounted oil tank COMPLETELY full (if not, BLEED AIR from the tank)
-Inspect fuel lines, oil lines, belt and tensioner
-Replace water separating filter (inspect for water and debris)
*While filter is out.... it's a good idea to add about 2 tsp of Quickleen & 2 tsp of Mercury Quickstore to the filter housing. Pump primer bulb firm, and run engine for at least 5 minutes on flush attachment.
-Replace spark plugs if needed ***
-Grease all zerks on engine with 2-4-C Grease
-Grease balls on ends of trim rams (short trim rams)
-Remove propeller
-Change Gear Lubricant w/Mercury High Performance Gear Lube
-Grease Prop Shaft, and Retorque Prop Nut
-Retorque Engine Mounting Fastners, Jackplate Hardware, and Steering Hardware
-Check fluid level in Hydraulic Steering (if equipped)
-Replace water pump impeller and gaskets (at a minimum)
Check gearcase mounting hardware (ALL) with a TORQUEWRENCH.
-Perform a careful visual inspection of the engine
-Drain water from speedometer and water pressure tubing (blow backwards through tubes to expel water)
-Treat/Protect livewells and pumps to prevent freezing damage
-Park boat with engine in the "full down position"
-Turn off, or disconnect batteries (unless you choose to charge them regularly).
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