Protect Your Outboard From Crude

[Ray]

Yamaha responds to calls

from consumers on how

to safeguard their engines

Since then Deepwater Horizon oil spill began in the Gulf of Mexico on April 22, nearly everyone interested in the environment has wondered what will happen to the water, plants and animals.
Aside from the environmental impacts of the crude oil spill, boaters are concerned about how oil-contaminated water will affect the operation of their outboard engines. Yamaha is offering tips on how to handle oil-contaminated water, acknowledging that there is very little past data to show how outboards will perform
It is not recommended to run your outboard in oil-contaminated conditions—however, whether you are out boating to help with the cleanup efforts or for recreation, it’s a fact that some boaters will have to operate in these conditions.
For outboards that are used in crude oil-contaminated water, Yamaha has made the following general recommendations:

• Operators should use extreme vigilance in monitoring water pressure and temperature conditions of the outboard
• Frequently clean the outboard’s lower unit, using a mixture of liquid dish detergent and water
• Frequently clear debris from the cooling water intakes using a stiff brush

Yamaha has been closely monitoring and collecting dealer and consumer comments regarding the performance of its outboards in the cleanup efforts. If you have questions regarding use in oil-contaminated waters, call Yamaha Consumer Relations at 866-894-1626.