Running Motor after adding Sta-Bil

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Tom Edwards on December 31, 2009 at 10:42am

I just start and go. Same with when I do the winterization - come spring = start and go. No need to put in fresh gas, that is what 'Sta-Bil' fuel stabilizer is for.

Get some of that Mercury 'Fuel System Treatment & Stabilizer' also.

Oh ya, I try to have a full tank before seting the boat up for the winter, less moisture collection on the inside top and sides of the tanks - condensation.

Permalink Reply by Scott Sevigny on December 31, 2009 at 10:52am

Same as Tom said. I usually add Sta-Bil, fill the tank and then run the motor for about 5 minutes when winterizing to get the Sta-Bil into the fuel lines as well as the tank. Coming out of winter (usually after sitting for 4-5 months without use), I don't do anything special other than start the motor and check the batteries before heading out. I have a 200 VMAX Yamaha and this is the 5th year I've gone through this process without issue.

Permalink Reply by David Watkins on December 31, 2009 at 12:06pm

thanks Tom and Scott, appreciate the replies!
Dave

Permalink Reply by Buck Brunner on December 31, 2009 at 7:12pm

I always add the appropriate amount of Sta-Bil Marine Ethanol formula and top off the tank before heading out. Also a good idea to add a bit more and top off the tank again when returning home.
As a side note, I learned the hard way last year... don't trust your fuel guage. Start out with a full tank before fishing, and top off the tank after! Sucks running your trolling motor batteries down all day, then the big motor won't start cause your out of gas! :-)
Also, like others have posted, remember to warm up the motor before hammering the throttle. No problems with my 2007 Optimax 200 what so ever and runs strong!

Best of luck!

Permalink Reply by Marc Marcantonio on January 1, 2010 at 9:36am

Fuel stabilizer used to be needed mainly to keep your octane level high enough, but now it also serves to keep the alcohol (added to fuel) from separating out. Condensation is still a concern, but not nearly as much as when we had metal fuel tanks.

Beyond a doubt, the guys who suggested warming up your engine thoroughly have hit the most important thing to remember in cold air and water conditions in my opinion. There is no way I'm going to run any 2 stroke outboard after any period of inactivity at full throttle on the next trip out. I want to make sure the lubrication system is fully pressurized and that any surface corrosion (on rings and cylinder wallsand thermostat is cleaned off) before pushing the rpms up.

I've known too many guys who blow their engines in cold conditions from pushing them too hard and to soon after inactivity.

ciao,
Marc