How to Manually Start an Outboard Motor

To manually start an outboard motor, you use the recoil starter, located on top of the outboard. The recoil starter uses a rope to compress a strong spring. When the rope is pulled out far enough, the spring is released to spin the motor's flywheel. When the flywheel and the crankshaft turn, the ignition process begins and the engine starts. Once the engine starts, the engine must warm up to its normal operating temperature before being used.

Instructions

    • 1

      Sit in front of the motor, facing it.

    • 2

      Turn the throttle control grip -- on the tiller -- to the "Start" position. Move the gear lever to the "Neutral" position. Pull the choke out if the motor is cold; if the motor has already warmed up, the choke isn't necessary unless the motor refuses to start after three pulls.

    • 3

      Turn the battery switch on. Pump the fuel primer bulb until it's full and firm. Place the gear shift in "Neutral." Turn on the ignition.

    • 4

      Grasp the starter rope handle. Pull the rope vigorously but do not release the handle suddenly.

    • 5

      Ease the rope back into the recoil starter. If the outboard starts, allow it to warm up. If the engine does not start, repeat the process until the outboard starts.