How to Fog an Outboard Motor

During long-term storage, the moisture in the air inside an outboard motor condenses like water on the outside of a glass of iced tea on a hot day. Fogging oil prevents rust from forming in the small chambers and passageways of the motor's carburetor. The carburetor is where the motor's fuel is mixed with air to form the combustible mixture that powers the motor. Fogging oil also protects the interior of the motor's cylinders, the combustion chambers where the fuel ignites. Fogging the motor properly is an essential part of preparing the motor for long-term storage.

Things You'll Need

  • Fogging oil
  • Spark plug wrench
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Instructions

    • 1

      Remove the top cover of the motor. Start the motor.

    • 2

      Lift the "High Idle" lever next to the throttle. Allow the motor's temperature to rise until it is within the normal operating temperature.

    • 3

      Spray fogging oil into the carburetor until the motor chokes fully and shuts down.

    • 4

      Disconnect the battery. Remove the spark plug from the top cylinder of the powerhead. Spray fogging oil into the cylinder. Replace the spark plug.

    • 5

      Remove each successive spark plug, using a spark plug wrench. Spray fogging oil into each cylinder. Replace the plugs after fogging each cylinder.