“Engine keeps dying.”

  • Check the fuel level.
  • Open the fuel cap and notice if air rushes into the tank or the vent is not open.
  • Make sure the fuel line is properly connected at both ends and has no kinks in it.
  • Squeeze the primer bulb and look for leaks.
  • Push in choke on manual outboard engine.

“Engine stalled and I can’t shift to neutral or restart the engine.”

  • The propeller may be obstructed.
  • Raise the engine and examine the propeller for tangled dock lines .
  • Is it possible you grounded the propeller.
  • DO NOT DIRECTLY TOUCH THE PROPELLER WHILE ATTEMPTING TO FREE DEBRIS! As debris is cleared the propeller may turn sharply and cause injury. Use an object such at the ID flag dowel to free the propeller.

“I can’t start the engine.”

  • Do you have the correct key?
  • Does the starter turn but the engine does not catch?
  • Perform checks under “Engine keeps dying”
  • If the engine has not been run recently, try choking the engine until it catches by pushing in on the key while starting, or pulling the choke tab on the outboard when pull-starting.
  • If the above does not work, continue with checks listed below
    • Does the starter not even turn when the key is turned?
    • Check the battery and cables
    • Check for an ignition safety lock-out
      • Is the shifter in Neutral? Wiggle the shifter while turning the key if unsure.
      • Is there an ignition safety switch causing the problem? Look for an on/off switch near the ignition, or a red lanyard with a clip on a black button. Make sure the switch is “On” and the red clip is securely attached. You can try wiggling the red clip while starting the engine.

“I ran aground.”

  • Are there any injuries (if grounding at speed)?
  • Shut down the engine immediately!
  • Lift the engine and examine the propeller
  • Paddle to deeper water, lower the engine and restart it.
  • If the propeller seems badly damaged, do not restart the engine as it could cause serious damage. Call a Co-chair for instructions.

“I can’t lift the engine”

  • Make sure the throttle/gear selector is in NEUTRAL
  • Check for obstruction. Is the engine resting on the bottom?
  • check on the side of the lower unit for a release tab.