Winterising

[Andy Moore]

What is it and do I need to do it?

[Nos4r2]

You do if your engine is going to lie idle for any length of time (usually during winter)

basically it involves a set of specific service jobs and coating the inside of the engine with a 'fogging' oil to prevent siezure from standing idle.

[three-rex]

Originally Posted by Andy Moore

What is it and do I need to do it?

Its to ensure that there's no water lying in the engine tubes which could freeze, and also that all metal surfaces are coated in oil so that condensation can't cause shiny bits to go rusty.
Engine manual should give more details, or pop to your friendly dealer for advice.

[Andy Moore]

http://www.mercurymarine.com/winterization_faqs

[Jizm]

If possible, it is better to run it periodicaly than winterise it.

[BogMonster]

Originally Posted by Jizm

If possible, it is better to run it periodicaly than winterise it.

That's how I did it last winter - make sure it gets a good run once a month, even in winter you get the odd day that is worth ribbing on

[three-rex]

Originally Posted by Jizm

If possible, it is better to run it periodicaly than winterise it.

If you're going to do that, make sure you're well protected from hard frosts!!

[alt]

If you leave it on a trailer, leave the engine trimmed down, it will enable water to drain better