Using outboards at iceup

[Ken Friedrich]

Looking for some advice:

With ice quickly forming on the lake but the fishing turning on heavy,is there a problem with using my 4 hp in 20 degree temperatures. Or should I just give it up and winterize it?

[Fallsman]

No problem. The only thing you have to do differently is when you pull out crank the motor over a couple of times to get the water out from around the water pump (impeller), that is if you store it outside. Secondly, if you are not sure as to when you will use it again run stabalized fuel. This will ensure that you carb doesn't get messed up. Third, is make sure you lower unit is free of water, again if you will store it where temps will drop below freezing. I've used my 150HP and my 9.9 4 stroke this way for the entire winter without any difficulties.

[Scott]

I have some experience using a 30 HP at freeze up during duck hunting. It's pretty brutal, and like fishing at that time of year, there are not many folks around that could help if you get in trouble. When the temps get that low, I usually get a fuel antifreeze from a snowmobile dealer. He had anti freeze that was designed for two stroke motors. The last thing you want is the carbs freezing.

One other thing that would help if you have to pull start it is , if you have room, carry the outboard in your truck. It will start much easier if it is wamred up than if it has been sitting out side for the trip or the entire night before. If I was using a 4HP, I'd keep it in the house or motel room the night before and then in the truck on the way there. Once you've had them running, you'll have no problems.

[Doc_wi]

Changing the gear lube in the lower unit is also a good idea.
Doc