Off Season Storage
1978 Johnson/Evinrude 25/35HP outboard motors
Use OMC 2+4 Fuel Conditioner in your fuel mixture to stabilize the gasoline. It eliminates need for draining fuel for up to one year of storage. Add once of OMC 2+4 for every gallon of gasoline. Then operate motor in fresh water for a few minutes to allow fuel mixed with OMC 2+4 to enter carburetor.
Do not operate motor out of water. Do not operate motor in a test tank without the proper test wheel. Either will result in damage to water pump, overheating, too high RPM, and possible explosion of motor parts.
Remove motor cover. Remove fogging plug. Start engine. With engine running at one-half throttle, disconnect fuel line at motor and rapidly inject OMC Rust Preventative Oil into fogging hole until motor stops. See Figure 2-21.
This will lubricate and protect internal parts of the powerhead while motor is in storage. Replace fogging plug.
Remove battery and check condition (water level and charge). Store on a board in a cool dry place and not in direct sunlight. Check water level and charge periodically during storage (electric start model).
Place motor on a stand in upright position.
Disconnect four wire rubber connector between armature plate and power pack to avoid accidentally starting motor.
Slowly crank several times to drain water from the water pump.
If OMC 2+4 Fuel Conditioner has not been used in fuel mix, drain fuel tank thoroughly by removing drain screw. Replace drain screw securely.
Remove propeller and check for damage. A damaged propeller blade may not be noticed on casual observation but will affect the performance of the motor. Clean and lubricate the propeller shaft with OMC Sea-Lube Anti-Corrosion Lube.
Drain and refill gearcase. Lubricate motor.
Remove spark plug leads from spark plugs.
Remove and check spark plugs. Clean or replace if necessary. Torque to 17-1/2 to 20-1/2 ft. Ibs. (24-27 Nm). Leave spark plug leads disconnected.
Touch up paint.
Apply a coat of automotive wax on external finish of the motor.
Give motor thorough visual check for loose screws or damaged and worn parts.
Store motor in an upright position in a dry and well ventilated room.
Updated on: Tuesday, December 1, 2020