| Enginetype: IOgas >
motormodel: mercruiser
> Serialnumber: 1981
> Configured: single
> boatmodel: Viking
> Boatlocation: fresh water.
> typeofneed: (Other)
> Need_Other: Summerize
> TechQuestion: What "all" is
included in summerizing?
Our answer:
One of the most important items that is often overlooked,
before spring startup, is to check and charge the battery, clean the battery connections,
and look at the battery tie downs and covers for condition. Repair and/or replace these
items before trying to crank the engine for the first time. A low/bad battery can ruin the
starter system.
Then check the engine room for any loose ends and/or
unfinished assembly that might have been left from last years winterize. I recently found
a litter of kittens that had made a home next to the engine in a boat I took out of
storage... so you never know what you may find.
What to do next, depends on the service history of the
engine and drive.
If your engine was winterized using Mercruiser's winterize
recommendations, from the owner's manual, the start up procedure might be relatively
simple. It depends on what service was done, to the engine, in addition to the mandatory
winterization steps. For example, If all the lubes and oils were not changed before
storage, this is a good time to do it. Also, things like the condition of your ignition
tune-up parts, water pump, exhaust hoses, motor mounts, fuel filters, and even the
propeller should be checked at this time as well. Some service may be considered annual
service and some service may be considered semi-annual service depending on engine hours
used and operating conditions. For example, for many people the water pump impeller, in
the sterndrive, can remain very serviceable for two or three seasons, but if using a boat
in shallow/sandy lakes... changing it every season is a good idea.
I could write a book here but as you can see... knowing and
keeping a service record for your boat is an important part of knowing what and when to do
certain service. Acquiring a service manual, for your specific engine, will also assist in
setting recommended service intervals. (The service manual is the most powerful tool in
your tool box.)
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