Outboard Engine Services

Living along the beautiful Gulf Coast makes boating an enjoyable and convenient passtime. Nothing can ruin a fun day on the water more quickly than mechanical issues. Summer is peak boating season, but our pleasant weather makes it possible nearly year-round. While this is a great benefit, it also means more hours on your boat’s engine. Saltwater constantly runs through the outboard engine requiring attentive care, so keeping your outboard engine serviced is a necessity. 

The Importance of Prevention

Boat engines much like car engines will last much longer when properly maintained. Our boats, however, are subject to much harsher conditions than our vehicles, making them more prone to mechanical issues.  Minor post voyage maintenance should be routine with every outing but annual maintenance by a factory-trained professional is of the utmost importance. Fortunately, Pensacola Shipyard has such expert contractors on-site. Failure to properly service your boat’s outboard engine can cost you time (as in less time on the water) and money.

The saying “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” was surely coined by a boat owner. Preventative maintenance is a priority to ensure you a safe and enjoyable life on the water. It also helps save on costly repairs and extends the life of your vessel. At a minimum, every boat owner should make a habit of checking the oil level and inspecting the fuel system for leaks prior to each use and perform thorough flushing and cleaning afterward. Additionally, professional annual maintenance can catch small issues before they become larger (and more expensive).

Why not DIY?

Today’s outboard motors have come a long way and are extremely technologically advanced. Even if you consider yourself a handy DIY type, your boat’s outboard engine service is best left to professionals. Pensacola Shipyard has on-site factory-trained experts. Whether it is a top of the line Mercury Marine or another engine manufacturer, our professionals have the knowledge to keep your outboard in tip-top shape. They have the trained eye and expertise to know what problems to look for, so you do not find yourself stranded on the water. Poor engine run, leaking fuel and ineffective steering are obvious issues. It is the more obscure problems that if left undetected can prove the most costly and problematic. The water pump or impeller is a prime example. It typically needs to be replaced every 3 years or so, but you should never wait until its severely compromised. A bad impeller can cause your engine to overheat resulting in costly damage. Maintenance is not just checking the fuel line and changing spark plugs. A seasoned marine mechanic will know what your engine needs and how to best service it.

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Maintenance Suggestions

A true factory-trained professional will give you a detailed list of what your engine’s annual maintenance needs are. Here are some key items typically included in an annual service checklist.

  • Computer readout
  • Inspect alternator belt and replace if necessary
  • Drain and replace gearcase lubricant
  • Replace fuel filters and spark plugs
  • Check corrosion anodes
  • Inspect battery
  • Check thermostats
  • Compression tests
  • Lubricate any needed areas
  • Check fasteners, nuts and bolts

Regular maintenance can mean the difference between a good and bad day on the water. Trusting an experienced marine mechanic can help prevent problems before they occur. 

Pensacola Shipyard is not only home to state of the art facilities but also to expert contractors to handle the job.