Michigan boaters know the drill: when November rolls around, it's time to think seriously about winterizing outboard motors. Today, Dwight Smith in Ann Arbor, MI, shares how to avoid improper winter storage.

Save thousands on preventable outboard motor repairs by calling Dwight Smith in Ann Arbor, MI, at (702) 561-3706 or visiting AMSOIL's online store for cost-effective winterization products that deliver superior protection against Michigan's extreme winter conditions and costly freeze damage.

Michigan's brutal winters demand more than basic boat storage - your outboard motor needs specialized protection to survive months of sub-zero temperatures, ice formation, and moisture infiltration. While general boat storage covers the basics, winterizing outboard motors requires specific steps that protect your engine's internal components from freeze damage that can cost thousands to repair.

Understanding Michigan's Unique Winter Challenges

Michigan's Great Lakes climate creates perfect conditions for outboard motor damage. Temperature swings from 40°F to -20°F cause expansion and contraction cycles that crack engine blocks. Lake-effect snow brings moisture that turns to ice inside your motor. Salt from winter roads creates corrosion when trailers are stored outdoors.

Your outboard motor contains water in multiple systems - the cooling, lower unit, and fuel systems. When this water freezes, it expands with tremendous force, cracking engine blocks, splitting cooling passages, and destroying lower unit seals. These repairs often exceed the motor's value.

The Complete Outboard Motor Winterization Process

Winterizing outboard motors starts with fuel system protection. Ethanol fuel absorbs moisture and creates gum deposits during storage. Start filling your tank to prevent condensation, then add AMSOIL Quickshot fuel additive. This premium formula prevents fuel degradation, removes moisture, and keeps injectors clean throughout Michigan's winter months.

Run the motor for ten minutes after adding fuel treatment to circulate the protected fuel through all system components. This ensures every fuel line, injector, and carburetor passage receives protection against gum formation and moisture damage.

Engine Block and Cooling System Protection

Michigan's freeze-thaw cycles make cooling system protection critical. Start by flushing the cooling system with fresh water using motor muffs or a flushing attachment. This removes salt, sand, and debris that accelerate corrosion during storage.

Next, antifreeze is circulated throughout the cooling system. Use marine-specific antifreeze that won't damage rubber seals or gaskets. Run the motor until you see pink antifreeze flowing from the exhaust outlets, ensuring complete system protection.

For additional protection, fog the engine cylinders with AMSOIL Engine Fogging Oil. Remove the spark plugs and spray fogging oil directly into each cylinder while turning the engine by hand. This creates a protective coating on cylinder walls, pistons, and valves that prevents rust formation during storage.

Lower Unit Service and Protection

The lower unit requires special attention when winterizing outboard motors in Michigan. Start by draining the gear oil completely and inspecting it for water contamination. Milky oil indicates seal problems that need immediate attention.

Refill the lower unit with fresh AMSOIL Marine Gear Lube, which provides superior protection against moisture infiltration and temperature extremes. This synthetic formula maintains viscosity in sub-zero temperatures while protecting gears and bearings from corrosion.

Remove the propeller and inspect the shaft for fishing line or debris. Apply marine grease to the propeller shaft before storage to prevent corrosion and ensure easy removal next season.

Electrical System and Battery Care

Michigan's winter storage demands electrical system protection. Remove the battery and store it indoors where temperatures remain above freezing. Clean battery terminals and apply dielectric grease to prevent corrosion.

Spray all electrical connections with AMSOIL Heavy-Duty Metal Protector to prevent moisture infiltration and corrosion. Cover the motor with a breathable, waterproof cover that allows air circulation while blocking moisture and rodents.

Trust your local AMSOIL marine experts. Contact Dwight Smith in Ann Arbor, MI, at (702) 561-3706 or stop by AMSOIL's online store for premium winterization products that Michigan boaters rely on to protect their outboard motors from Great Lakes winter conditions and ensure trouble-free spring launches.

Advanced Protection Strategies

Professional winterizing outboard motors includes internal engine protection beyond basic steps. Change the engine oil before storage, using AMSOIL Marine 4-Stroke Oil that provides exceptional cold-temperature protection and corrosion resistance.

Apply marine grease to all grease fittings, steering connections, and pivot points. This prevents corrosion and ensures smooth operation when spring arrives. Store the motor in the fully-down position to drain water from cooling passages.

Storage Environment Optimization

Choose a dry, ventilated space protected from temperature extremes. Avoid plastic covers that trap moisture—use breathable canvas covers instead. Place moisture absorbers near the motor to control humidity levels.

Position the motor to allow air circulation around all components. Slightly open the engine cover periodically during storage to prevent moisture buildup, but keep rodents away with appropriate deterrents.

Ready to protect your outboard investment from Michigan's brutal winter conditions? Contact Dwight Smith in Ann Arbor, MI, at (702) 561-3706 or check out AMSOIL's online store for marine-grade winterization products, like AMSOIL 75W-90 100% Synthetic Marine Gear Lube, that safeguard your motor through months of sub-zero temperatures and ensure reliable spring startups.