How to Prepare Your Outboard Motor for Summer 🔧

As the weather improves and boating season approaches, it’s important to make sure your outboard motor is ready for the months ahead. Whether your engine has been stored over winter or simply hasn’t seen much use, carrying out a few essential checks can help prevent breakdowns, improve performance, and ensure you get the most of your time on the water.

Inspect the Exterior

Start with a visual inspection of the outboard. Look for signs of corrosion, damage, loose fasteners, or worn components. Check the propeller for dents, cracks, fishing line, or debris that may have become wrapped around the shaft.

Addressing small issues early can prevent larger and more expensive repairs later in the season.

Check Engine Oil and Fluids

Before starting your outboard, inspect the engine oil and other fluids according to the manufacturers recommendations. Old or contaminated oil can affect performance and increase engine wear.

If the engine was not serviced before winter storage, a fresh oil and filter change is highly recommended before regular use.

Test the battery

A weak battery can quickly ruin a day on the water. Check that the battery is fully charged, terminals are clean, and all connections are secure.

If the battery struggles to hold charge or shows signs of deterioration, replacing it before the season starts is often the safest option.

Inspect the Fuel System

Fuel issues are among the most common causes of outboard problems at the beginning of summer.

Inspect fuel lines, primer bulbs, connectors, and fuel filters for signs of wear, cracking, or leaks. If fuel has been left sitting for several months, consider replacing it and checking for contamination in the system.

A healthy fuel system helps ensure reliable starting and smooth engine performance.

Check the Cooling System

Your outboard relies on its cooling system to prevent overheating.

Inspect the water intake for blockages and ensure there are no visible signs of damage to cooling system components. If your outboard has not had an impeller replacement within the recommended service interval, it may be worth having it inspected by a marine engineer.

Overheating can lead to costly engine damage, making this one of the most important checks before summer.

Test Controls and Steering

Throttle controls, gear selection, and steering should operate smoothly without excessive resistance.

Any stiffness, unusual noises, or delayed response should be investigated before heading out on the water. Reliable controls are essential for both performance and safety.

Start the Engine Before Your First Trip

Many owners wait until launch day to discover a problem. Running your outboard before your first outing gives you an opportunity to identify issues in a controlled environment.

Check that the engine starts easily, idles smoothly, and produces a strong cooling water stream. Listen for unusual noises and ensure all gauges are functioning correctly.

Why Professional Servicing Matters

Even if your outboard appears to be running well, routine serving remains one of the best ways to protect your investment.

At NWS Marine, our experienced marine engineers provide professional servicing, diagnostics, repairs, and maintenance for Yamaha outboards and a wide range of marine engines. A pre-season service can help identify hidden issues before they become costly breakdowns during the busiest months of the year.

Regular maintenance not only improves reliability but can also extend the lifespan and performance of your outboard.

Get Summer Ready

Preparing your outboard motor for summer doesn’t take long, but it can make a significant difference to reliability and performance throughout the season.

By carrying out these essential checks and scheduling professional maintenance where needed, you’ll have greater confidence every time you head out on the water.

If you’d like your outboard professionally inspected or serviced before the season gets underway, contact NWS Marine and our team will be happy to help.

Read Our Reviews

    
 
 
         
   John Tildesley 
 
 
 
  I needed a really quick fix on an outboard for my sailing boat, and as usual Nic was on it straight away, extremely helpful and knowledgeable, and a good guy. Highly recommend. Thanks Nic.
  
 
        
   Ian Wainwright Jones 
 
 
 
  Outstanding service from Nik at NWS Marine. Always on the end of the phone when you need him, with genuinely excellent knowledge and advice you can trust. Nothing is ever too much trouble, whether it’s a quick question or a bigger job. Reliable, professional, and clearly passionate about what he does. Top-class service every time – highly recommended. 👏
  
 
        
   jayne wilkinson 
 
 
 
  Nic was very knowledgeable and soon sorted us with a new outboard for our cruiser. A great price and included fitting by Nic.
  
 
        
   Vince Prince 
 
 
 
  Great chap i spoke to on the phone. Told him what outboard i had, serial numbers etc Asked me to give him half an hour. called me back as he said. Managed to have all the parts i needed to service my own engine in stock. reasonably priced as well. Great stuff will definitely call again. Thanks V
  
 
        
   David Allsopp 
 
 
 
  I have visited Nick at NWS Marine numerous times over the last 3 years. Every occasion I have visited NWS nothing has been too much for Nick. His knowledge of anything that floats especially jet skis is second to none. Everything is explained in detail, nothing is ever too much. It’s not just skis or boats Nick can assist with, he supplied & set up a Custom SBS Jet Ski trailer for me, ensuring I was completely happy with everything. Whether it’s jet skis, boats or trailers, you’re in safe hands with NWS.
  
 
        
   Wilderness Editor 
 
 
 
  Very pleased with the initial service on my Yamaha FT8GEPL. Nick was flexible on timing so I was able to drop the engine off mid morning,  and collect it mid afternoon on my way home.
  
 
        
   Simon Duly 
 
 
 
  Nick is a great marine mechanic! Highly recommended
  
 
        
   Rory Collingbourne 
 
 
 
  NWS have prepared my skis for the last two years - communication & service 10/10! Highly recommend to anyone looking to buy a Jetksi / find a service centre. Nick is highly knowledgeable on all products making sure your ski is fully prepared.
  
 
        
   Martin Iezzi 
 
 
 
  ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Highly recommend NWS Marine! I went to see Nik at the beginning of this year for information on a Yamaha jet ski, he gave me a great quote and really looked after me throughout the process. Although I didn’t end up purchasing a new ski from him, I bought a second-hand one elsewhere, and Nik has still been amazing. He serviced my ski, provides top-class support, and is always happy to share his knowledge and advice. Really genuine and helpful guy. I’ll definitely be going back,