As the warm weather finally returns, people can’t wait to take their vessels out of the boat storage and enjoy some relaxing days out on the water. Unfortunately, that excitement can quickly turn to frustration when you try to fire up the engine for the first time since taking it out of storage only to realize there’s a problem. To avoid this issue, it’s helpful to understand the following common causes of engine failure.

5 Reasons a Boat Engine Won’t Start

1. Broken Emergency Cut-Off

The engine has an emergency cut-off switch that automatically shuts it down when the lanyard clip becomes disconnected. When the cut-off switch isn’t working, it thinks that the lanyard is off even when it’s connected. That results in the engine continuously cranking without actually catching, and it won’t start until it’s repaired or replaced.

2. Gas Tank Problems

Often times, people forget to refill the tank after taking it out of boat storage and think the engine is damaged. Check the tank, and if there is fuel inside, but it still won’t start, make sure that the gas tank air vent is open, too. If it’s closed, reopening it should allow the engine to come to life.

3. Gear Shift

If you turn the key and notice that other components are functioning, but the engine won’t turn over, check the gear shift. Most boat engines won’t crank unless the shift is set to neutral. Make sure it’s securely in neutral and turn the key, and if it starts up, there are no problems with the engine.

4. Obstructed Fuel Lines

The fuel lines connecting the tank and engine need to allow the fuel to flow freely to power the motor. Perform an inspection of the line, and look for any kinks, objects that have fallen onto it, or that it has gotten stuck between the tank and the deck. Once these issues have been addressed, try turning the engine on again.

5. Aging Spark Plugs

Another common cause of engine failure is spark plugs that can no longer generate the ignition needed to spark a fire in the air and fuel mixture, so this is always a great place to inspect. Look for any white residue or black soot coating it, as these are signs of fouling and may mean it’s time to replace them. You might also notice physical damage to the insulator tip, boot, or upper and lower insulators, which also cause them to fail.

 

Make sure your boat is ready for the warm season by keeping it in professional boat storage at Texarkana Self Storage and RV in Bowie County, TX. This premier storage facility provides a variety of self-storage options that are tailored to keep it safe and protected all off-season. They also have security solutions and 24/7 access so you can rest easy knowing your boat is ready for you whenever the time is right. Learn more by calling (903) 792-7867 or find a storage unit online.