1. Periodic maintenance is important
Periodic maintenance is the best way to keep your Honda outboard motor in top condition. Servicing annually (or more frequently in the event of heavy or frequent use) ensures your outboard engine performs better and lasts longer. You will find the servicing and maintenance plan in your engine’s manual. It is recommended that you get the periodic servicing done by the Honda Marine dealer where you bought your outboard motor. They know your engine better than anyone.
2. Choose genuine Honda parts
It’s best to get your engine repaired with new, genuine Honda parts, because these are developed especially for your specific Honda outboard motor. That way, you can rest assured of the best quality and absolute reliability, and you can enjoy carefree days on the water for many years to come.
3. Use Pro Honda Oil
Lubrication is crucial to the performance and lifetime of your outboard motor. So always check your oil level before you set off. To guarantee your engine continues to work properly, it’s important to change the oil at the recommended intervals as well. Always use Honda Genuine Oil, which is developed specifically for your Honda motor and provides optimal performance support.
4. Check your propeller
It’s important to check the condition of your propeller regularly, even if you don’t remember running aground or colliding with an object in the water. Damage to the propeller blades may lead to imbalance, resulting in damage to the motor itself.
When should you replace your propeller?
• If the blades are damaged
• If your boat is running slow
• If the hub, shaft or blades show signs of wear or damage
Find out here” how to choose the right propeller for your Honda outboard engine
5. Check your outboard motor is working properly
When you start the engine, always take a moment to listen for any unusual sounds. Is your outboard running normally? If you hear anything odd, inspect your engine thoroughly.
- Check whether all the bolts and fastenings are tight, and that the engine is properly secured to the boat.
- Check that the water used to cool the engine is flowing out freely. If the flow is weak or imperceptible, check the water pump impeller is still working properly and that the water outlet is not blocked. Overheating can cause major damage to your outboard engine.
- Inspect the fuel line and its components. Squeeze the primer bulb and check whether pressure builds up in the fuel line. Also check whether any fuel is leaking and ensure no air or contaminants are getting in through the fuel line.
6. Use good fuel
Your engine can only perform optimally if you use the right fuel. If you have not used your boat for a long time and there is old petrol in the tank, empty it and fill it with new fuel.
7. Maintenance after use
Make a habit of doing a maintenance check on your outboard after every trip to prevent problems and defects. Don’t forget to let the motor cool down before maintenance.
- Rinse off salt water thoroughly with clean, fresh water. This is because salt can have a detrimental effect.
- Clean the outboard motor. Above all, prevent damage by ensuring that the moving parts are not dirty.
- If you’re storing the engine for a long time, disconnect the battery and drain any fuel that is left in the tank.
