Author: Bruce Johnson

Boats are typically powered by one of three types of motors: inboard, outboard, or outdrive. Each type of motor has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Here is a brief overview of the main differences between inboard, outboard, and outdrive motors:

Inboard motors are mounted inside the hull of the boat and are connected to a propeller shaft that extends through the hull and into the water. Inboard motors are generally more powerful and efficient than outboard motors, and they also tend to be quieter and smoother running. One of the main advantages of inboard motors is that they allow for a more streamlined hull design, which can make the boat faster and more agile.

Outboard motors are mounted on the transom (the rear of the boat) and are connected to the propeller by a long shaft. Outboard motors are relatively simple and easy to maintain, and they can be easily removed for storage or repair. They are also relatively inexpensive compared to inboard motors. However, outboard motors are generally less powerful and less efficient than inboard motors, and they can be quite loud.

Outdrive motors are a hybrid of inboard and outboard motors. They have an inboard motor that is mounted inside the hull, but the propeller is mounted on an outboard-style lower unit that is attached to the transom. Outdrive motors offer some of the advantages of both inboard and outboard motors, but they are also relatively complex and expensive to repair.

Overall, the choice between an inboard, outboard, or outdrive motor will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Inboard motors are generally more powerful, efficient, and smooth running, but they are also more expensive and require more maintenance. Outboard motors are less powerful and efficient, but they are also simpler and less expensive to maintain. Outdrive motors offer a balance of performance and simplicity, but they are also relatively complex and expensive to repair.

For more information, call us at 651.321.3701 or email help@bjsboatservices.com.

Maintaining the fluids in a large motorboat is essential for keeping it running smoothly and efficiently. There are several different types of fluids that are used in a large motorboat, and it’s important to know what each one is used for and how often it should be changed. Here’s a rundown of the most common fluids found in large motorboats and their recommended change intervals:

Transmission fluid: Transmission fluid is used to lubricate and cool the transmission, as well as to help transmit power from the engine to the propeller. It should be changed every 500 hours of operation or every two years, whichever comes first.

Engine oil: Engine oil lubricates the moving parts of the engine and helps to reduce friction and wear. It should be changed every 100 hours of operation or once a year, whichever comes first.

Coolant: Coolant helps to keep the engine running at the proper temperature by absorbing and dissipating heat. It should be changed every 500 hours of operation or every two years, whichever comes first.

Fuel filter: The fuel filter removes contaminants from the fuel before it is delivered to the engine, helping to keep the engine running smoothly. It should be changed every 100 hours of operation or once a year, whichever comes first.

Power steering fluid: Power steering fluid is used to help make it easier to steer the boat. It should be changed every 500 hours of operation or every two years, whichever comes first.

Anode: An anode is a sacrificial metal that helps to protect the boat’s hull and propeller from corrosion. It should be replaced when it has worn down to about half its original size.

By keeping up with the recommended fluid change intervals for your large motorboat, you can help to ensure that it is running smoothly and efficiently, as well as extend its lifespan. Regular fluid changes are an important part of maintaining your boat, so be sure to make them a priority.

For more information, call us at 651.321.3701 or email help@bjsboatservices.com.

Winterizing your motorboat is an important annual maintenance task that helps protect your boat from the harsh winter weather and ensures that it is ready for use when the warm weather returns. Neglecting to winterize your motorboat can have serious consequences, both in terms of the condition of your boat and your safety on the water. Here are a few reasons why it’s essential to winterize your motorboat:

Protect against freezing temperatures: Water that is left inside the engine, plumbing, and other systems of your boat can freeze and expand during the winter, causing serious damage to your boat’s components. Winterizing your boat involves draining all of the water from these systems and adding antifreeze to protect against freezing temperatures.

Prevent corrosion: Cold winter weather can also cause corrosion to occur on the metal components of your boat, including the engine, propeller, and hull. Winterizing your boat helps to prevent corrosion by cleaning and drying the boat thoroughly and applying a protective coating to vulnerable areas.

Maintain the value of your boat: A well-maintained boat is more valuable than one that has been neglected, and winterizing your boat is an important part of maintaining its value. If you don’t winterize your boat and it sustains damage over the winter, it could lose value and be worth less when it comes time to sell or trade it in.

Ensure the safety of your boat: Proper winterization helps to ensure the safety of your boat, as well as the safety of anyone who uses it. If your boat has not been winterized and is not in good working order, it could pose a risk to you and your passengers when you take it out on the water.

In short, winterizing your motorboat is an important task that should not be overlooked. By taking the time to winterize your boat each year, you can protect it from the harsh winter weather, prevent corrosion, maintain its value, and ensure the safety of your boat and its passengers.

For more information, call us at 651.321.3701 or email help@bjsboatservices.com.

If you’ve ever found water in your motor boat’s outdrive, you know it can be a frustrating and potentially costly problem. Here are a few common reasons water may get into the outdrive:

Worn or damaged seals: The seals on the outdrive are responsible for keeping water out. If they are worn or damaged, water can easily get in.

Leaky outdrive bellows: The bellows are rubber tubes that protect the outdrive from water and debris. If they are torn or damaged, water can enter the outdrive.

Clogged water inlets: The water inlets on the outdrive are responsible for bringing cooling water to the engine. If they are clogged, water may not be able to flow freely and can back up into the outdrive.

Incorrect propeller installation: If the propeller is not installed correctly, it can cause an imbalance and allow water to enter the outdrive.

If you suspect water is getting into your outdrive, it’s important to address the problem as soon as possible to prevent further damage. A qualified mechanic should be able to diagnose and fix the problem. Regular maintenance and inspections can also help prevent these issues from occurring. Happy boating!

For more information, call us at 651.321.3701 or email help@bjsboatservices.com.

Before you take your motor boat out on the water, it’s important to make sure it’s in good working order. Here’s a checklist to help you inspect your boat’s readiness:

Clean and inspect the hull: Remove any dirt or grime that may have accumulated over the winter, and look for cracks or damage.

Check your engine: Make sure the oil and filter are clean and in good condition, and check the spark plugs and fuel system.

Test your safety equipment: Check that all of your safety equipment, such as life jackets and flares, is in good condition and easily accessible. Review your boat’s emergency procedures with your crew.

Check your boat’s electrical system: Make sure the battery is fully charged and inspect the wiring to ensure all of your electrical components are in good working order.

Inspect your navigation and communication equipment: Make sure your GPS, VHF radio, and other navigation and communication equipment is working properly.

Check your boat’s interior: Look for any damage or wear and tear, and make any necessary repairs.

By following this checklist, you can help ensure that your boat is ready for the season. Happy boating! For more information, call us at 651.321.3701 or email help@bjsboatservices.com.

If you own a boat with a generator, it’s important to make sure it’s in good working order before you take it out on the water. Not only will a faulty generator leave you stranded, but it can also be a safety hazard. Here are a few tips for testing your boat’s generator:

Check the fuel system: Make sure there is enough fuel in the tank and that the fuel lines are free of leaks or blockages.

Inspect the air filter: A dirty air filter can cause problems with the generator’s performance, so make sure it’s clean and in good condition.

Test the generator under load: One of the best ways to test your generator is to run it while using a high-power appliance, such as an air conditioner. This will help you determine if the generator is producing enough power to meet your needs.

Check the battery: If your generator has a battery, make sure it’s fully charged and in good condition. A weak or damaged battery can cause problems with the generator’s performance.

By following these simple steps, you can help ensure that your boat’s generator is ready for the season. It’s also a good idea to have a professional mechanic give your generator a once-over to make sure everything is in good working order. Happy boating!

For more information, call us at 651.321.3701 or email help@bjsboatservices.com.

As the weather starts to warm up, it’s time to start thinking about getting your motor boat ready for the season. Here are a few tips to help you prepare your boat for the water:

Clean and inspect the hull: After a long winter, it’s important to give your boat a thorough cleaning to remove any dirt or grime that may have accumulated. While you’re at it, inspect the hull for any cracks or damage that may have occurred over the winter.

Check your engine: Before you take your boat out on the water, make sure to check the oil and filter, as well as the spark plugs and fuel system. If you haven’t used your boat in a while, it may be a good idea to have a professional mechanic give it a once-over to ensure everything is in good working order.

Test your safety equipment: Make sure all of your safety equipment, such as life jackets and flares, is in good condition and easily accessible. It’s also a good idea to review your boat’s emergency procedures with your crew to make sure everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency.

Check your boat’s electrical system: If your boat has been in storage over the winter, it’s important to check the battery and make sure it’s fully charged. You should also inspect the wiring and make sure all of your electrical components are in good working order.

By following these simple steps, you’ll be well on your way to having a safe and enjoyable boating season. Happy boating!

For more information, call us at 651.321.3701 or email help@bjsboatservices.com.