Flat storage of Outboard

O

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Jan 25, 2007
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24999
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Looking to store a dingy OB on its side.
If I can find a used 2-stroke, then I'll drain the fuel.
But if I can only get a 4-stroke, what about the crank case oil?
Using an OB bracket to keep it upright is a last resort due to the cockpit space.
Anyone storing horizontal?
Thanks,
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290AJ
 
I don't think it's considered a good idea. Water in the exhaust system conceivably can drain back into the powerhead, not good. Some engines can be stowed flat in certain positions... check the manual or contact the manufacturer.

However; over the years I've stowed 2-strokes flat for limited periods and never had any ill effects, but for long term storage I always tried to store them upright.
 
Drain all of the water, and even hand turn the flyweel a few times to be sure all of the water is out. I generally store the 2 cycles either on a stand, or on the back, so that the aft end is down. For 4 strokes--same for draining the water. The manual will tell you what side you need to store on the 4 stroke on. Never had a problem in many years. I do put carpet down for both the cowling and prop to prevent marring the deck or engine.
 
I've seen pictures (in new boat catalogs) of outboards laying flat in underseat storage. I thought that was the reason people chose 2-stroke O/B's over 4-strokes. I didn't think there was anything else you needed to do with a 2-stroke, doesn't the water drain out just by pulling the engine out of the water?
 
4 strokes can be stored on their side, but only one side. 2 strokes can be put down any way. That's part of the reason I went with a 2 stroke, no worries about storing things wrong.
 
For over 15 years I have stored my 2 stroke out boards in the cockpit, under the back seat. I put a piece of carpet on the deck and against the transom bulkhead. I also, in recent years, placed the 9.8 HP Nissan inside of a padded canvas carry bag and then put the bag with the engine in it under the back seat. Never a problem with the engines.
 
Carefull not to put the engine down on the shift lever, linkage side. I have not had any problems storing or transporting smaller outboards on there non shifter side or down on there front or on there backs.
 
Thanks for the feedback!
I checked with some manuals and it looks like I need to keep the head slightly above the lower-end, so as to keep any water from draining into the pistons.
Nissan recommends that you store a 2-cycle with the tiller arm up. The 4-stroke Nissan does not recommend 'storage' on its side but does mention laying it flat for a short time as long as the shift linkage is up.
I'm only looking to transport flat (in a bag) and will keep it upright in the cockpit or on the dingy for normal storage.
 
I have carried my mid-80's vintage Evinrude 15 2-stroke in every conceivable position (including upside down) for years, with no apparent ill effects. Just drain the water out by standing it in the vertical position for a few seconds.

I don't know anything about the 4-strokes but since they have a crankcase I would suggest following the manufacturer's directions, if for no other reason than to avoid the loss of your lube oil.

Kevin
 
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