Owning a boat comes with substantial responsibilities. It’s up to you to have the knowledge and right gear to properly care for the transportation device.
There are inevitable days when you aren’t taking the boat on the water for an adventure. During this time, you should keep your outboard boat motor covered when not in use. Learn what an outboard motor is, how the cover works, and precisely how the cover guards the motor from harm.
What Is an Outboard Motor?
An outboard motor is a self-contained engine system mounted on the stern of your boat. It includes the engine, gearbox, and propeller in one compact unit. This powerhouse keeps the boat moving. Therefore, you need to protect this piece of machinery.
How Does an Outboard Motor Cover Work?
An outboard motor cover acts as a shield, wrapping around the motor to guard it against external elements. It contains durable polyester and fits snugly over the motor. The benefits of this protective addition are numerous!
Covers Protect the Motor From Dust and Debris
Dust and debris can wreak havoc on your outboard motor. When particles accumulate inside the motor, they clog air filters, reduce efficiency, and even cause mechanical failures.
A motor cover prevents these contaminants from infiltrating the engine. This simple accessory can help you avoid costly repairs and keep your motor running smoothly.
It’s Expensive To Have Outboard Motors Repainted
Repainting an outboard motor is both expensive and time-consuming. Professional services charge hundreds of dollars to restore your motor’s original appearance. Not to mention, the repainting process puts your boat out of commission, disrupting your boating activities.
A more cost-effective solution is to use a motor cover. It safeguards the motor’s surface from scratches, fading, and other damage. This preventative step stops the need for frequent repainting and the high prices.
Covers Are More Effective Than Applying Wax
A coat of wax repels water and makes the outboard motor shine. Waxing requires frequent reapplication and primarily guards against minor scratches and UV rays. However, it’s not a comprehensive form of protection.
When your boat isn’t in use, you should always have a cover for thorough preservation. It will limit sun exposure, keep dust and debris out of the motor, and protect the motor against moisture.
A Protected Motor Increases the Boat’s Value
Maintaining your outboard motor is essential for ensuring optimal performance and preserving the overall value of your boat. When potential buyers evaluate a vessel, the condition of the motor often plays a crucial role in their decision-making process. A well-maintained motor free from wear and damage is likely to attract a higher resale price.
Covers Safeguard the Motor During Transportation
Transporting your boat can be an exciting adventure, but it also comes with unique challenges, especially regarding your outboard motor. As you travel through various terrains, debris like stones, gravel, and pebbles are easily airborne and pose threats like chipping and damaging the motor.
A motor cover acts as a protective barrier that reduces the impact of flying debris. Without it, small projectiles can cause dents and scratches, harming both the motor’s appearance and functionality. Protecting your outboard motor with a cover while transporting your boat helps you maintain its look and contributes to its durability, ultimately saving you from expensive repairs in the future.
Most Common Consequences of Storing Without a Cover
Storing your outboard motor without a cover leads to a range of detrimental effects that compromise its performance and longevity. Understanding these consequences can underscore the need for proper protection.
Sun Damage
Continuous sun exposure can be detrimental to your outboard motor. The cowling that houses the engine contains painted plastic that’s prone to fading and cracking under constant UV rays. A motor cover blocks these harmful rays, preserving the cowling’s color and integrity. By shielding your motor from the sun, you can avoid the unsightly appearance of a faded cowling and maintain the value of your boat.
Over time, the sun’s rays can degrade the material of the cowling. This can cause discoloration, brittleness, and breakage. It also causes expansion and contraction that leads to warping or cracking. As a result, this can lead to things like sun and weather to damage the motor.
Oxidation or Paint Fading
Without proper protection, the plastic cowling of your outboard motor is vulnerable to oxidation. A chalky white film can appear on the surface and weaken the plastic’s strength over time. Plus, it becomes an eyesore as the paint peels and ages the outboard motor.
Knicks and Scratches
Other objects are more likely to come into contact with an outboard motor without a cover. These minor knicks and scratches might seem insignificant. However, they can accumulate throughout the years and cause long-term wear. It’s better to use a cover so that the outboard motor always has a protective layer and a pristine appearance.
Best Practices When Using an Outboard Motor Cover
Now that you understand why using an outboard motor cover is necessary when not in use, you need some tips for application.
Choose the Right Size
A properly fitting cover will provide optimal protection and prevent it from blowing off during strong winds.
Use a Cover Composed of High-Quality Fabric
High-quality polyester resists tearing and fading for long-term outboard motor protection. The material is non-abrasive, so it doesn’t cause any damage to your motor’s surface.
Another key benefit of polyester is its water-resistant qualities. Water will stay away from the motor, which ensures it stays in excellent condition when not in use.
Secure the Cover
Always use the tie-down straps or fasteners that come with the cover so that it stays in place no matter the weather.
Dry Before Covering
Make sure your motor is completely dry before putting on the cover to prevent mildew.
Yamaha Online Parts is the ultimate resource to safeguard and improve your Yamaha boat. Select the Yamaha outboard motor cover that complements your model. The durable polyester fabric and tight fit will ensure the motor is comprehensively protected when not in use.
