Here’s a simple outboard motor preventative maintenance tip aimed at keeping your engine lubricated and rust-free during periods of infrequent or non-use. To accomplish this, Ryan DeChaine treats fuel with lubricating oils, then periodically turns the engine over to apply and redistribute lubrication throughout the upper cylinders.
FUEL TREATMENT
When an engine sits, oil and other lubricating compounds slowly drain out of the upper cylinder area, leaving piston rings, seals, and cylinder walls exposed to rust-inducing moisture. This residual moisture can collect where piston rings meet the cylinder wall, forming rust which can degrade engine performance and life. Turning the engine over (exercising the pistons) disrupts corrosion while reapplying protective lubricants.
