How do I start and operate an outboard motor?
I've just bought a 3.2m inflatable with a 15hp Yamaha 4-stroke tiller outboard. I've never driven a boat before. What is the exact sequence to start it, run it, and stop it without flooding the engine or breaking anything?
Answer
Starting and operating an outboard motor requires a strict sequence: prime the fuel system, set the choke and throttle, pull the cord, and always attach the kill cord. Once running, you manage speed and direction through the tiller while keeping a constant eye on the cooling water tell-tale.
Fuel Setup and Pre-Start Checks
Petrol fumes explode easily. Ensure your portable fuel tank has ventilation and check all fuel line connections for tightness. Connect the fuel line to the engine and the tank. The arrow on the primer bulb must point towards the engine. Open the breather screw on the fuel tank cap by giving it two full anti-clockwise turns. Forget this step and the engine will stall after a few minutes from a fuel vacuum. Squeeze the primer bulb firmly until it goes hard. This takes three to five squeezes. For a 15hp Yamaha 4-stroke, pull the cowling off and check the engine oil level on the dipstick before launching.
The Starting Sequence
Clip the kill cord to your lifejacket or around your thigh immediately. The engine will not start unless the clip sits firmly under the red stop button.
- Neutral: Ensure the gearshift lever clicks solidly into neutral. Modern outboards have a neutral lock-out preventing a pull-start whilst in gear.
- Throttle: Twist the tiller grip to the start position. An arrow or raised bump marks this spot. It opens the throttle just enough to catch without over-revving.
- Choke: Pull the choke knob all the way out for a cold engine. Leave it pushed in on a warm day or if the engine ran recently.
- Pull: Grip the starter handle and pull it out slowly until you feel the engagement point. Give a sharp pull straight back. Guide the handle back into the cowling instead of letting it snap back.
Push the choke back in halfway the moment the engine fires. Push it fully in after a few seconds as the idle smooths out. Look straight over the transom. A solid stream of water must exit the tell-tale hole. Shut down immediately if it spits steam or runs dry. Check for a blocked intake or a ruined rubber impeller.