How to Start an Outboard Motor

How to Start an Outboard Motor. Starting an outboard motor may seem complex, but with the proper steps, it’s straightforward. Whether your motor has manual or electric ignition, here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started safely and efficiently.

Preparation

1. Open the Ventilation Cap

• Twist open the fuel tank’s ventilation cap to allow air to flow in as fuel drains.
• Why: Prevents vacuum formation, which can damage the tank or motor.

2. Tilt the Motor into the Water

• Lower the motor so the propellers are fully submerged.
• Use the trim mechanism or manually adjust it by releasing the pin on smaller boats.

3. Engage the Kill Switch (Manual Ignition Motors)

• Connect the lanyard (with a metal clip) to your wrist, belt loop, or life jacket.
• Attach the other end to the kill switch knob on the motor.
• Why: Ensures safety by cutting off the motor if you fall overboard.

4. Squeeze the Primer Bulb

• Pump the bulb until it feels firm, ensuring fuel flows into the motor.
• Avoid over-pumping, which can flood the engine.

5. Shift to Neutral

• Confirm the gear shift is in neutral to prevent sudden movement when starting.

Starting the Motor

6. Activate the Choke

• Manual Motors: Push the choke button or move the lever to the “close” position.
• Electric Motors: Push the key deeper into the ignition for automatic choke activation.

7. Start the Engine

• Manual Motors: Pull the starter cord. Slowly pull until you feel resistance, then yank forcefully. Repeat as needed.
• Electric Motors: Insert the key and turn it like starting a car.

8. Turn Off the Choke

• After the engine starts, deactivate the choke to prevent flooding and spark plug fouling.

Driving the Boat

9. Shift to Forward or Reverse

• Move the gear lever forward to cruise or reverse to back out of a slip.
• Start slowly and gradually increase throttle speed.

10. Navigate and Adjust Trim

• Steer using the wheel or tiller. Remember, pushing the tiller left moves the boat right (and vice versa).
• Adjust the trim to raise or lower the bow as needed.

Stopping the Boat

11. Align the Boat

• Point the bow toward your intended stopping location.

12. Shift to Neutral

• Slowly return the gear shift to the neutral position.

13. Turn Off the Motor

• Press the red stop button (manual) or turn the key back and remove it (electric).

14. Secure the Motor

• Close the fuel tank’s ventilation cap to prevent fuel evaporation.
• Raise the motor so the propellers are out of the water.

Tips

• For 2-stroke and 4-stroke motors, these steps apply universally.
• Test your motor out of water before the season starts to ensure proper functioning.
• Always maintain your motor to ensure smooth starts and optimal performance.

By following this guide, you’ll be ready to navigate the waters safely and confidently!