Replacing spark plugs frequently is another thing I do that most boat owners fail to think about doing to ensure top engine performance.

I change out my plugs after about every three trips. I want fresh plugs in my boat that will help me save on gas, and keep my baby working at her best.

Fuel System / Water Coolant System:

The fuel system on the new Bass boats should never be disconnected because it would be too much of a problem.

On older bass fishing boats and here again, verify the proper motor storage procedures in your owner’s manual and with your boat service company, it is suggested by some marine service companies to run the boat motor until it runs out of fuel and shuts off. This prevents the oil and fuel mixture from gumming up the carburetors when the boat is in storage which will save you about $500 in carburetor replacement or service cost.

Do this right after you pull the boat on the trailer but with the boat motor still in the water so the water will circulate through the motor cooling system.

If the boat ramp is too busy and you have to do this at home, use what I call Mickey Mouse ears or some people call them Rabbit Ears that allow you to hook the garden hose up to the lower unit to supply the motor with water. You do not want to run the motor without water because here again this mistake could cost you an arm and leg replacing the water pump.

As extra protection for my bass boat, I put Fuel Stabilzer in my gas that can be found at Auto Zone or Walmart. This will keep the gas from breaking down while it is setting up for the winter.

Another thing I do is lower my big Motor so that fuel does not sit in the carburetors. Again, each type of motor can require different maintenance duties to protect that expensive motor so do read your owner’s manual and not use it to start a fire.

If at all possible at least once a month you need to start your big motor and let it run for about 5 minutes...MAKE SURE THAT YOU HAVE WATER BEING FED INTO THE MOTOR. Remember to use the Mickey Mouse (Rabbit) Ears to supply the water to the boat motor’s lower unit.

I’d hate to see you at the marine boat shop paying to replace that expensive water pump.

Another Word of Caution Related To The Boat Motor Water Coolant System:

Always make sure water is shooting out of the port near the top back side of the motor when using the Mickey Mouse (Rabbit) Ears at home and while the boat motor is running in the lake. The water shooting out of the port is an indicator the water used for cooling is completing the required water flow cycle.

I’ve seen the dirt dabber insect from the wasp family especially out in the country areas actually build their nest in the top water exit port which restricted the proper water flow. Always check this water exit port before heading out to the lake; if the dirt dabbers are building nests, a small piece of tape temporarily covering the port hole will prevent this from happening. Otherwise, you will be looking for something to dig out the hard compacted dirt from the small opening before you start the boat motor.

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