|
|
|
Make Your Outboard Perform Better
Print This Article
|
Email This Article
Today's outboard engines are some of the most lightweight forms of marine power and many offer features that maximize fuel efficiency.
Still, no matter what kind of outboard you run, there are a number of ways to extend your fuel economy while boating -- whether you enjoy fishing, waterskiing or cruising. Suzuki Marine has the following suggestions for outboard owners:
* Use the propeller that best suits your boat and style of boating. Propeller size and pitch can have a great effect on fuel efficiency. And no single propeller will be right for everyone. Too much pitch can overload the motor. Too little pitch can result in over-revving and engine damage. That's why a wide range of propeller sizes are available to meet your style of boating. Your dealer can help you select the propeller that's right for you and your boat.
* Use the highest quality gasoline and oil available. No matter what kind of outboard you run, cheap low octane gasoline can hurt your fuel economy. It simply doesn't burn as efficiently as high grade gasoline (For instance, Suzuki recommends 87 octane or above). The same holds true with two-cycle oil. Cheap, low quality oils can foul spark plugs and create deposits that rob you of fuel efficiency. Use high grade gasoline. And you should use a premium outboard engine oil -- Grade NMMA/TCW-II or equivalent. (Avoid mixing dissimilar oil brands, as they may congeal and cause engine damage.)
* Eliminate extra weight wherever possible. Clean out your boat periodically to eliminate items that are not absolutely needed. Also, check for any accumulated water in the bilge. All of these factors add substantial weight and tend to reduce fuel efficiency, as well as performance.
* Keep your engine tuned up. To keep your outboard engine running at peak efficiency, make sure you keep it tuned up. This means periodically replacing the spark plugs and other components that affect fuel efficiency. Check your owner's manual for the recommended service schedule. If you don't feel comfortable servicing your outboard engine yourself, take it to your marine dealer.
* Make sure the bottom of your boat is as clean as possible. Growth, such as barnacles and algae, on the bottom of your boat can increase drag and seriously reduce fuel efficiency. So can improperly applied bottom paint. If you keep your boat in the water, have the bottom cleaned often. And make sure any bottom paint is applied smoothly, with brush strokes running parallel to the keel.
* Trim your engine for maximum fuel economy. Depending on your type of hull, overall weight and boat speed at any given time, the trim angle of your engine can strongly influence your fuel economy. For example, running at cruising speed with the engine trimmed in too much can force the bow down and reduce fuel efficiency. Check your owner's manual or see your marine dealer for the proper trim techniques.
* Operate your boat in a reasonable and safe manner. For the sake of fuel economy as well as safety, don't operate your boat at excessive speeds. Run at a comfortable cruising speed, using any extra throttle only when necessary. Not only is it safer, but you'll maximize your fuel efficiency, as well.
|
This article first appeared in the October 1, 1996 issue of Sea Magazine. All or parts of the information contained in this article might be outdated. |
|
|
|
|
