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diagnosing problems with alternators, batteries and starters


2 Tips For Preparing Your Boat's Engine For Winter Storage

Once the weather turns chilly in late fall, you know that your leisurely days of taking your boat out on the lake are almost over and that it is time to prepare it for storage. However, especially if this is the first year you have had the boat, you may be uncertain as to what needs to be done to keep the engine in good condition while you are not using it. If so, below are a couple of things that you should do while preparing your boat's engine for winter storage.

Check the Spark Plugs and Wires

One thing you should do when winterizing your boat is to check the spark plugs and their wires for any signs of damage or corrosion. If the spark plugs' tips are corroded or rusted, it will not only eat away at the plugs during the winter but can also spread at the contact points inside the motor.

If the wires are broken or the rubber cover is compromised, moisture will come in contact with the metal wires. Not only will this corrode the wires, but it could possibly short out the electrical system when you go to start it up again.

After removing the battery, disconnect the wires and inspect them carefully. Then, use a wrench with a long socket to remove the spark plugs so that you can examine the tips. If you find any corrosion, replace them with new ones.

Change the Oil

If you are not using your boat, you may think that you can wait to change the oil in the springtime. However, oil can become dirty and contaminated with water, bacteria, and sludge. If you leave the old oil in the motor without use, it may clog up the engine, which would require either extensive flushing or even replacement.

After the last time that you use the boat, drain out the old oil and refill it with oil designed for your boat's particular engine model. If you need help, speak with a representative at the supply store.

Performing the above tasks when winterizing your boat's motor can help keep it in good condition and ready to go when you want to go boating once warm weather returns. If you are unsure of the type of oil to use for the motor or need to change the spark plugs or wires, contact a marine maintenance parts supply store for assistance.

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diagnosing problems with alternators, batteries and starters

Alternators, batteries and starters are in every vehicle and can cause a lot of problems when they don't work right. Your car may not start or it may stop running while you are driving down the road if the alternator is bad. Unfortunately, figuring out which element is causing the problem is not always easy. This blog will teach you all about alternators, batteries and starters so you can learn how to test these elements and diagnose the problems that your vehicle is having before you find yourself stranded along the road in the middle of the night with nobody around to help.