OCCASIONAL ENGINE RUNNING DURING OFF SEASON

KBHARDER

Member
Joined
Jan 28, 2011
Messages
20
Fluid Motion Model
C-302 C
Hull Identification Number
FMLT3111GS16
Vessel Name
STARBIRD 2016
I have a R31S with a Volvo D4-300. We use the boat mainly during the summer months accumulating about 75 hours of running time annually. However, during the off season we seldom use the boat and it often sits unused for months. The boat is kept in a cover slip in the Pacific Northwest where freezing issues are seldom an issue. The oil and filters are changed in the fall so it sits with fresh non-corrosive oil. I make a point every other week to run the engine for 5-10 minutes mainly to circulate the oil in order to keep the crank shaft bearings somewhat lubricated preventing a future excessive dry start from prolonged sitting. I know this does not have all the benefits of bringing the engine up to operating temperature but that is not my concern. Some say this occasional brief running to keep the bearings lubricated is a good practice and beneficial, some say it is irrelevant, others say the occasional starts are damaging and best to let it sit until needed. What do others recommend?

KBHARDER
STARBIRD R31S
 
Here is my opinion: every two weeks sounds excessive, I would recommend running it once a month but for a longer period, like 20 minutes and put it in gear just above idle so it is under a little load. (Check for any divers first though!)
But I think the most important thing is that you are maintaining your boat, whatever you do is 1000 times better than all the people that do nothing.
 
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