Most marine and water enthusiasts are likely familiar with boats and their propulsion systems. For the weekend hobbyist, you have probably operated an outboard motor. The other kind of engine system is the inboard motor that you likely have also encountered.
Differences Between the Two Motor Types
Inboard motors mounted inside the boat, typically at the hull. On the other hand, an outboard motor is outside the boat, usually in the back or cross-section of the stern called the transom. Inboard motor mountings tend to be more permanent than their outboard counterpart.
The Popularity of the Outboard Motor
Fishing lovers and speedboat enthusiasts tend to opt for outboard motors due to their quick-handling, tight turning radius, as well as for slow-speed agility. Furthermore, shallow waters do not present a problem due to the tilting prop feature of these engines. (Read Best Small Battery for Trolling Motor)
Other Outboard Motor Advantages
Other benefits outboard motors provide that make them preferable to inboard versions are:
- Portability since they can easily be mounted or removed.
- Owing to portability, they are far easier to maintain and service since they are fully exposed. They also have a straightforward winterizing process.
- Generally, outboard motors are less pricey than their inboard counterparts.
- Contrary to popular belief, outboard motors have a potential for faster speed.
Operating Your Outboard Motor
How to start an outboard motor is quite straightforward. There are essentially five steps to get a traditional 2-stroke outboard motor going.
- Tilt the engine fully down so fuel can travel to the carburetors.
- Now press the primer bulb until it becomes firm.
- Advance the throttle in neutral to 2/3s.
- Turn the key to the ON position, push (or pull) out the choke and crank simultaneously.
- Release the choke; return the throttle to neutral once the engine starts.
Once you get the hang of it, starting an outboard motor becomes second nature. However, there are also troubleshooting tricks that you should be familiar with. I have found that knowing how to start an outboard motor that has been sitting can be invaluable.
It is inevitable even for the most avid angler or boating enthusiast to have a long or short hiatus from the water. Consequently, you will have motors that will be dormant for some time. As a result, you could encounter some hard starting issues. (Read Do You Need a License to Drive a Boat)
Here are some time-proven tips to start an outboard motor that refuses to come alive.
- Take out the spark plugs and replace the worn ones. (Ideally, change them all).
- Oil the cylinders
- Inspect the condition of the gear lubricant
- Check the integrity of the fuel line. Also, replace old fuel that may already be stale. You can attach an external fuel tank with new fuel.
- Moreover, make certain the tank is vented. If it is a built-in tank, check that there is no partial or full obstruction to the vent.
- Look at the oil level and add some if the amount is inadequate.
- Use a fully charged battery.
- Once you get it started, run the motor on a garden hose to flush it.
Every fishing or boating enthusiast will tell you the sound of an outboard motor that comes to life is music to their ears. There are, however, times when you would prefer an engine that makes almost no noise at all. What I am alluding to is the trolling motor.
Trolling Motor Guidelines
The trolling motor or electric motor is a great option for the fishing enthusiast. The sport requires stealth, and that is what you get with a trolling motor. They also offer excellent maneuverability.
To power an inflatable boat, and if you are looking for speed, get a 10-20hp outboard. However, there is a range of thrust options for different boat sizes. You can get anywhere from 18lbs to 112lbs of thrust. A trolling motor 30 lb thrust will usually be ample for a modest-sized boat.
A 12V battery is usually the power source for these motors, with larger ones requiring more batteries. Larger motors can use two, sometimes even three 12v batteries. Trolling motors are extremely popular for game fishing.
Selecting the right shaft length is also vital since a short one means the propeller cannot adequately submerge. It is recommended that the center of the motor section is underwater at least 12 inches.
Trolling motors also provide an auxiliary power source, particularly to anglers that need maximum agility and maneuverability.
Is This The Motor Type For You?
If you are mulling over taking-up angling or boating as a hobby, do you think the outboard motor is for you? I certainly find it to be extremely versatile and easy to work with. I also feel quite comfortable doing the maintenance work myself.
Whether you get a fuel-based outboard motor or a trolling motor is entirely up to you. This will also depend in part on your specific purposes. You could also get both, as many advanced anglers do.
As with all things that require gear, your budget will ultimately dictate your selection process. Luckily, there are many choices these days that can accommodate both meager and generous budgets. Very little stands in the way of you enjoying the many marine activities.
