Does salt water damage an outboard motor?

Although saltwater can easily damage an outboard motor, there is not need to forgo saltwater boating. Instead, pay careful attention to regular and preventative maintenance that will help keep your outboard motor clean during saltwater use.

How long can you leave an outboard motor in saltwater?

A boat can only safely stay in saltwater for about one week, but in most cases, three to four weeks in freshwater will not cause damage.

What does salt water do to a boat motor?

Engines are made from metal, which is likely to corrode and rust from the saltwater without proper maintenance. Once your engine has endured a day out in the ocean, rinse both the engine and cooling system down with freshwater.

Can I run my Mercury outboard in saltwater?

Mercury outboard engine will not run in salt water.

Can a submerged outboard be saved?

Fear not. A dunked outboard can happen, but you need to act fast! Saving your outboard—whether it’s a two or four stroke—from a watery death in fresh or salt water isn’t as hard as most people think. But fast action is crucial regardless of salinity.

Does salt water ruin a boat?

Sure, washing saltwater off the boat after another successful fishing trip isn’t fun. It can be a chore, but it’s necessary to your craft’s health. Saltwater—and salt spray, for that matter—can corrode your boat’s surfaces over time.

How long can a boat sit in the water without bottom paint?

I wouldn’t put a boat in the water for more than 2-3 days without bottom paint.

What happens if you don’t flush your outboard?

What we find is if you do not flush your motor as per the manufacturer’s specifications you will over time get a build-up of residual salt, and that salt will crystallize in the water flow galleries and being pressed against the alloy structure of the head they will slowly corrode and pit.