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Marine Engines: Special Care Needed

If you are planning on becoming a boat owner, there are many factors to consider, not the least of which is engine type. There are several types from which to pick, depending on the size of your boat, the frequency of its use, and the place in which it will sail.

Deciding between gasoline and diesel is one choice. If your boat will see common use, you may want to go with diesel. Diesel provides extra strength, although it is not offered on most powerboats. You will need to run the motor often, because rust is a problem in diesels which sit idle.

Gasoline engines are less expensive, and fuel is more easily available. Gasoline powered marine engines can sit for long times without seeing any use. Out on the water, gasoline engines are quite responsive to the throttle, providing super speed bursts when you need them.

Probably the three most well known types of motors are inboard, outboard, and stern drive. The last kind is the most popular, especially for pleasure boats. The stern drive is powered by an inboard motor. Power goes through a shaft in the bottom of the boat to drive the propeller, which is located beneath. These engines offer a lot of horse power!

Those shopping for boats should know beforehand that there is a lot of care demanded to make sure your boat stays in great condition. With all their exposure to water and the grime it carries, neglectfulness with marine engines can be highly damaging. Routine maintenance should be practiced diligently.

Careful winterization is vital. It can be time consuming, but when taking the boat out in spring, you will thank yourself! Depending on whether you have an inboard, outboard, or stern drive motor, the winterization duties vary. For the first two, the engine must be flushed with clear water. For any boat, filling the fuel tank to capacity will prevent condensation. Adding a fuel stabilizer is needed, too. Water should be drained, faucets turned off, and antifreeze added. These are just an example of the many chores that will be required before you store your boat.

If you are up to the challenge of taking care of a boat, you are in for an incomparable experience. You will find that few things are more exciting than being the "captain of your own ship!"

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