Advice on outboard prep

[freebledsoe]

Hi folks, I just got a 9 horse outboard from my gramps, and he said it was last run 2 years ago. He said it was winterized before storing, and started and ran great back then. I was wondering, should I have a shop check it out before I try starting/ running it? I was told that I might want to, to make sure it is well lubricated and that the seals are still good- something about seals drying up? I've never had a boat and motor before, so I don't know what to do. Also, if this sounds like something I should do, any suggestions on where to take it?

Thanks, and good fishing

[eurolarva]

The first thing you want to do is replace the impeller in the lower unit. Then buy a service manual for the motor. If the motor was fogged before it was winterized the seals should be okay. Drain any gas from the carb and gas tank. With fuel hose disconnected from the carb prime out any old fuel in the fuel lines. Start with fresh gas and burn a couple of gallons mixed 24 to 1 with marine outboard oil. After the two gallons are done use 50 to 1 mix on the gas. Inspect all the fuel lines. With the ethenol gas we have here you may have to replace the fuel lines, rebuild the fuel pump and the carb. These are easy to do and pretty cheap. If you can find someone to work on the motor you could be looking at a month or so to get it back.

[Fisher Dave]

I dont mean to stick my foot out here .. but the motor was stored 2 years, not 20 years.

Give me a call or email and we will get together and make sure your water ready.

[freebledsoe]

Thanks Dave, I'll get hold of you soon!

[freebledsoe]

It's up and running well!

A little bit of prep was all that was needed, as I found out it had been fogged and winterized by a boat dealer prior to storage. Thanks for your responses guys.