Merry Christmas!

Wishing you a joyous Holiday Season and a prosperous New Year in 2018!

We sincerely thank you for your business and are extremely grateful for the role we play in ensuring your fun out on the water.

From our family to yours, may the New Year ring in an abundance of health and prosperity.

Warmest wishes,
The US Boatworks Team

I Damaged My Lower Unit – Now What?

Tips & recommendations for replacing your gearcase lower unit.

It happens – just plain bad luck – hitting an underwater tree stump, rock or other invisible debris & your lower unit is shot.  After you get towed safely back to shore and have a chance to regroup, what are your next action steps?  We have written this article to outline the step you should take if you damage your lower unit.  Use this as a reference tool as you navigate through the process of repairing or replacing your gearcase lower unit.

First off, if you think you have damage to your lower unit but are hoping that it will be okay if you ignore the problem, be aware that internal damage to your unit may not be noticeable right away.  Slightly damaged
gears may seem to work fine at first but over time the off-kilter gears will wear away and cause eventual failure.  We recommend you have your motor diagnosed thoroughly to determine if you have internal damage.  Check out this forum for further evidence: What smacking a boulder does to your lower unit gears.

We recommend calling the insurance company that has your boat policy before you do anything.  Some policies will cover accidental damage to your drive.  If your insurance policy covers the damage, your claims adjuster will give you instructions as to how to get your lower unit fixed or replaced.  Some insurance companies tell you where to go for a replacement unit or repairs.  Others will approve your repair/replacement estimate at the shop of your choice.  Either way, be sure you have a reputable boat repair shop that specializes in lower units.  Your local boat shop may purchase a replacement lower unit from a 3rd party for you so do yo
ur homework and find out where the unit is coming from. Three options for replacing your unit are discussed below.

The choices you have when replacing a lower unit include a brand-new OEM unit, a remanufactured OEM unit or a new aftermarket unit.  I will discuss the pros and cons of each below.

Brand New Manufacturer Unit

This unit is made by your motor manufacturer and will contain original OEM parts.  Quality manufacturing is a guarantee and the unit will come with a nice warranty.  Warranties will vary by manufacturer so please check with a knowledgeable dealer regarding the warranty.

• More expensive
• Warranty depends on manufacturer
• All parts are OEM
• Outstanding quality drive
• Usually ships in 24 hours

New Aftermarket Lower Unit 

The new aftermarket lower unit is usually manufactured in China.  The quality control is generally lacking on these units.  The up side is that they are significantly cheaper and some aftermarket manufacturers give a great, 3 year, fault free warranty. While this warranty is nice, it is a pain in the neck to deal with replacing the unit under warranty.  There is the obvious down time associated with diagnosing the problem, calling the manufacturer for warranty replacement, placing a replacement order, waiting for the unit to be delivered then waiting on the boat shop to install the unit.  Do your homework before purchasing an aftermarket unit!

• Better prices compared to OEM Lower Units
• Made overseas where quality control and trained mechanics are lacking
• 3 year, fault free warranty from certain manufacturers
• Built new to manufacturer specifications
• Includes all internal parts & is fully compatible and interchangeable with OEM drives
• Usually ships in 24 hours

Remanufactured Lower Unit

A rebuilt or remanufactured unit should be built by quality, trained mechanics with OEM parts.  These units offer the best of both worlds, giving you OEM parts, a unit assembled by trained mechanics in the US and a nice price savings over new OEM units.  This option is the preferred choice of most boaters.

• Priced at deep discounts to save you money
• Rebuilt by trained mechanics in the USA
• Units usually include a full 1 year warranty but this will vary
• Built new to manufacturer specifications
• Includes all internal parts & is fully compatible and interchangeable with OEM drives
• Usually ships in 24 hours

If you are looking for a reputable remanufacture of lower units, check out US Boatworks in Kansas City.  They have been in the Replacement Drive business for over 30 years and know your motor inside and out. They offer personalized service and will get your unit to you with the exact specifications needed.  Insurance claims are always welcome there.  The owner personally handles all insurance claims and is happy to talk with you and your adjuster to get the best deal for you.  He has been replacing outdrives for over 30 years.
Call them at 913-342-0011 or email them for more info.

Remanufactured Lower Unit availability and pricing from US Boatworks

Thank You

US Boatworks would like to say “thank you” to all our customers.  We are proud to be serving the greater Kansas City area with boat maintenance and repair for over 30 years. Our success is due to our wonderful staff and loyal customers.

If you haven’t tried US Boatworks for your boat repair needs, you will be comforted to know our seasoned certified mechanics each have over 25 years experience.  To maintain certification, our mechanics complete training and educational classes each year. Give us a try next time you need some work done on your outboard or sterndrive.

To show our appreciation, we are offering great savings on your online boat parts order.  Our Black Friday Special: Save $25 when you spend $100 or more in our online store.  Use code 25off100 at checkout to receive your discount. Shop reliable, quality boat parts from Mercury, Mercruiser, Evinrude, Johnson, OMC and Volvo-Penta.  US Boatworks stocks over 2 million boat parts so they are ready to ship out quickly to you.  We also specialize in NLA hard to find boat parts. Chances are we have what you are looking for. Shop for boat parts NOW!!!

Black Friday Sale-Save $25 at US Boatworks

Our Black Friday coupon begins today and runs through midnight, Friday 11/24. Save $25 when you spend $100 or more in our online store.  Use code 25off100 at checkout to receive your discount. Shop reliable, quality boat parts from Mercury, Mercruiser, Evinrude, Johnson, OMC and Volvo-Penta.  US Boatworks stocks over 2 million boat parts so they are ready to ship out quickly to you.  We also specialize in NLA hard to find boat parts. Chances are we have what you are looking for. Shop for boat parts NOW!!!

Boat Motor Tune Up Instructions

Judging by the huge quantity of duck boats we have in our repair shop for tune-ups right now, it is clear that duck season in our area is underway. To be sure your first duck hunting trip this year goes smoothly, make sure your outboard motor is running in top shape.

The first order of business is to tune up your motor.  There are many steps involved in tuning up your motor, the first of which is to decide if you are going to do it yourself or leave it to the professionals.  If you are leaving it to the professionals, get your boat to the shop asap to ensure your motor is running smoothly. Trusted Kansas City boat repair shops will have a lot of winterizations to do at this time of year so don’t put this off until the last minute.

If you are doing an outboard motor tune up yourself, your first order of business is to pull out your boat owners manual.  If you can’t locate your owners manual, call our come down to our store in Kansas City to get one. Once you have your owners manual, check guidelines for recommended procedures, lubes, oils and replacement parts.  Failure to use manufacturer required brands can void your warranty and may cause you further headaches down the road.

Start with a visual inspection of your motor starting at the bottom.  Look for signs of leaking lubricant that may run down the propeller.   This could be a signal that seals have gone bad.  If this may be the case, bring your boat in for service. Next check the propeller for signs of damage.  Cracks in the blades by the hub, large chips or bent blades call for repair or replacement of your prop.

As you move up the motor, check and fix missing or loose screws, nuts or bolts on the lower unit.  Lubricate the grease fittings at the transom bracket, swivel bracket, and transom clamp screw as directed in your owner’s manual. The throttle control should be inspected and lubricated per your manual.

Next up is to replace the spark plugs and fuel filter. Then it’s on to the lower unit. Check your owner’s manual for the recommended frequency of lubricant changes for your outboard motor’s lower unit. Begin by removing the unit’s top and bottom fill plugs and allow the lube to drain into a container of your choice. Replace the lubricant with the manufacturer recommended product by filling lubricant into the bottom fill hole until lubricant reaches the top fill hole. Once filled, replace the top plug, remove the applicator nozzle and replace the bottom plug then wipe clean.

Last but not least, get all your hunting gear out.  Clean, inspect and replace as necessary then get out there and have fun.

US Boatworks closed on Saturdays for the Winter

It’s sad but true, US Boatworks is now closed on Saturdays through March 2018.  While we may be open shorter hours, we will still be hard at work for our customers.  Our lot is still packed with boats to winterize and we already have some big winter projects for a few individuals. A big chunk of our time will be spent getting ready for next spring as well.

If you haven’t already taken care of winterizing, be sure your boat is in a warm garage or storage facility.  If you need tips and help, check out our winterization page and our blog.

Celebrate National Hunting and Fishing Month

October has been declared National Hunting and Fishing Month by U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke.  Zinke is a proponent of hunting and fishing and looks to expand these activities in our National Parks. He notes in an article on the Kansas Wildlife Federation Website, that hunters and anglers play a huge part in conservation by contributing billions of dollars to protect our wildlife. It’s his opinion that the more people out there fishing and hunting, the better.

So all you hunters and fishers, get out there and enjoy the outdoors but do it within the law and with safety in mind.  Rules and regulations around hunting and fishing can be complex.  The Kansas Outdoors Website is a great resource for the do-es and don’ts of both fishing and duck/bird hunting in Kansas.

To be sure your first duck hunting trip this year goes smoothly, we strongly suggest your outboard motor is running in top shape.  Tuning up your motor is the first order of business.  There are many steps involved in tuning up your motor  & the first is to decide if you are going to do it yourself or leave it to the professionals.  If you are leaving it to the professionals, get your boat into the shop asap to insure your motor is running smoothly. Trusted Kansas City boat repair shops will have a lot of winterizations to do at this time of year so don’t put this off until the last minute.

If you are doing an outboard motor tune up yourself, your first order of business is to pull out your boat owners manual.  If you can’t locate your owners manual, call our come down to our marine store in Kansas City to get one. Once you have your owners manual, check guidelines for recommended procedures, lubes, oils and replacement parts.  Failure to use manufacturer required brands can void your warranty and may cause you further headaches down the road.

Start with a visual inspection of your motor starting at the bottom.  Look for signs of leaking lubricant that may run down the propeller.   This could be a signal that seals have gone bad.  If this may be the case, bring your boat in for service. Next check the propeller for signs of damage.  Cracks in the blades by the hub, large chips or bent blades call for repair or replacement of your prop.

As you move up the motor, check and fix missing or loose screws, nuts or bolts on the lower unit.  Lubricate the grease fittings at the transom bracket, swivel bracket, and transom clamp screw as directed in your owner’s manual. The throttle control should be inspected and lubricated per your manual.

Next up is to replace the spark plugs and fuel filter. Then it’s on to the lower unit. Check your owner’s manual for the recommended frequency of lubricant changes for your outboard motor’s lower unit. Begin by removing the unit’s top and bottom fill plugs and allow the lube to drain into a container of your choice. Replace the lubricant with the manufacturer recommended product by filling lubricant into the bottom fill hole until lubricant reaches the top fill hole. Once filled, replace the top plug, remove the applicator nozzle and replace the bottom plug then wipe clean.

Last but not least, get all your hunting gear out.  Clean, inspect and replace as necessary then get out there and have fun.

DIY Boat Winterization Supply Guide

Winterizing tips for do-it-yourselfers:

This week daytime temperatures are dipping into the 60's and it finally feels like fall outside.  Enjoy these cooler temperatures by taking your boat out for a quick drive while you can.  Traffic on the lake will be at a minimum; you may have the lake all to yourself.  It may be a little chilly for water skiing and tubing, but it’s a delightful time for a nice drive on the lake or even spending the day fishing.

While you are enjoying the last few weeks on the lake, keep in mind that the task of winterizing your outboard or sterndrive is around the corner.  Winterization must be completed before the first hard freeze.

What is a responsible boat owner to do? You have two choices:

1. Have your boat engine winterized by certified mechanics
Our blog next week will cover tips on having your boat repair shop complete your winterization. If you want to get ahead of the rush, bring your boat into our shop now while the wait is minimal.

2. Winterize your motor on your own.
For the DIY boat mechanic, preparation is key in winterizing your boat.  Having the correct marine grade oil, lube and fuel stabilizer is important to prevent potential damage down the road.  Picking this up at the auto store or large discount chain is not the way to go.  If you are saving money by doing the task yourself, put some of that savings towards genuine Mercury Marine, Evinrude, Johnson or Volvo-Penta oils and lubes.   Below is a list of what you need before you begin winterization.  Stay tuned for more winterizing tips on this blog or search our archives for tips from previous seasons.

US Boatworks customers can enjoy 10% off your winterization items below when mentioning this blog- carry out only.

Outboard:
2 Stroke
Gear Lube
Fogging Oil
Fuel Stabilizer

4 Stroke
Anti-freeze
Fogging Oil
Fuel Stabilizer
Engine Oil
Oil Filter
Gear Lube

Sterndrive:
Antifreeze
Fogging Oil
Fuel Stabilizer
Engine Oil
Oil Filter
Gear Lube

WaterFire KC 2017- US Boatworks Saves the Night

This past weekend was the annual WaterFire event on the Plaza in Kansas City.  WaterFire is a unique experience of sparkling bonfires on the water, live music from boats along Brush Creek, and performances from the shore & the boats.  The event employs three boats with 25 hp Mercury outboards to move performers up and down the creek.

The week of the show, organizers came to US Boatworks with two non-working Mercury outboards.  They arrived on Wednesday & our team immediately took to action to get the motors in working order.  On Thursday the first outboard was repaired and was quickly back on the water to practice for the upcoming show.  Then on Friday, the day before the show, we finished up the second repair.  Within just a couple of days, we had both boats back on the creek, the performances would go on!

I was lucky to be able to attend the 2017 WaterFire event on Saturday. It was a wonderful show with something for everyone. If you have a chance, be sure to check out. More exciting events are planned for next year.

Fall Into Savings

Ways to Save at US Boatworks 

This fall season opportunities abound for savings at US Boatworks.  Currently we have two ways to save.  First, when you order boat parts online, you can reduce your shipping costs to $7.95 when you order $100 or more.  Using coupon code 7dollarship at check out.  (Some exclusions apply)

Next up is our Mercury outboards rebate program.  Now through December 15, 2017, when you buy a new Mercury Marine Outboard you can receive a rebate of up to $1000.  It’s a great time to buy a new Mercury outboard since our new 2018 models are out on the floor. Qualifying motors are shown below:

Mercury Outboards Eligible
Horsepower	Rebate
9.9 ProKicker	$135
30	$200
40 – 65	$335
75 – 125	$500
135 – 175	$670
200 – 350	$1,000

If great financing options are what you are looking for, Mercury is offering 0 down, 0% interest and 0 payments for six months when you choose this option instead of the rebate. You will be heading into spring without paying a penny on your new outboard. Call us now about your power needs and we will take good care of you. Our knowledgable staff has plenty of experience to get you in the right motor for your needs.

Rebates on Mercury Outboards Available Now!

REPOWER SALES EVENT

Discover Rebates on New Mercury Outboard Motors

Buy a new Mercury Engine today and save big. Choose between two great repower offers:

  – a factory-direct rebate of up to $1,000    OR 
  – 0 down payment, 0 interest, and 0 payments for six months financing.

Either way, there’s no better way to join the bold with the latest Mercury power performance.
Orders must be completed by December 15, 2017 to qualify for the rebate. Check out our Mercury Marine Outboards in stock then call for more information and pricing.  We are the lowest priced Mercury Outboard dealer in the Kansas City area.  Several of our customers drive from St. Louis and Des Moines to save money on their outboard purchase.   If we don’t have the motor you want in stock, we usually get the motor direct from Mercury in 2-3 days at which time our certified mechanics will install and rig your motor.  Feel comfortable buying from a reputable, hard-working family run business.  

Mercury Outboards Eligible
Horsepower	Rebate
9.9 ProKicker	$135
30	$200
40 – 65	$335
75 – 125	$500
135 – 175	$670
200 – 350	$1,000

Rebate amounts vary by engine model. Limited time promotional financing offer available through Medallion Bank and administered by Brunswick Financial Services Corporation. On all loans approved under this program, buyer has the option of making no down payment and no payments for 6 months. Interest will begin to accrue on the principle balance at the end of the promotional period, 7 months from the loan closing date, at the rate listed on the Simple Interest Note and Security Agreement. For example, if the loan were for $10,000.00 for 84 months at a contract rate of 8.99% APR, the regular monthly payment would be $160.84. Approval, and any rates and terms provided, are based on credit worthiness. Offer available to residents of the USA except in the states of Montana and West Virginia. Minimum amount financed is $5,000, maximum amount financed is $50,000. Dealer sets actual sale prices. Both the promotional financing offer and the rebate offer apply to Engines purchased between September 15, 2017 and December 15, 2017 at authorized, participating Mercury dealers. Standard 3-year limited warranty applies, and any applicable promotional warranty that may be offered and is within the program guidelines. All Pacemaker, Mercury Racing, Government, previously registered engines, donations, as well as engines sold for commercial, camp or resort applications and sales/registrations outside the United States are excluded. Also excludes any non-U.S. resident, or address outside of the U.S. Engines originally sold to a Boatbuilder are also excluded. Engines on the Angling or Sponsorship program do not qualify. Consumers are only eligible for one benefit on the qualified repower engine. Promotional financing offer may not be assigned, traded, sold or combined with any other offer unless expressly stated herein. OFFER VOID WHERE RESTRICTED OR OTHERWISE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

Let the summer fun continue – Shipping Sale!

Although we are past the Labor Day Holiday, summer continues to hang on here in the midwest.  We have a few more warm summer days to enjoy the lake! Get out there and enjoy the water!

In honor of the end of summer save over 50% off shipping! Now through the end of the month we have $7.95 flat rate shipping on orders over $100 when you order on-line.  Use coupon code 7dollarship at check out.

This offer excludes oil, manifolds, lower units, engines and motors. Coupons on excessively heavy orders will be honored at store’s discretion.

The best oil for your outboard

Motor oil for 2 and 4 stroke engines is readily available at discount stores or automotive stores.  The 
price is slightly cheaper than the OEM boat engine oil so we often get the question:  “Can I safely use aftermarket or generic oil in my outboard motor?”

Always use Brand Name OEM Oil for your motor.

The manufacturers of the generic oils say their oils are safe for your 2 or 4 stroke outboard motor. While this may be true but is it the best oil for your outboard?

Budget lubricants usually use cut rate ingredients to achieve a low price point. They have also manufactured this oil to work with a chain saw, weed eater, lawn mower, car and more.  Since they cover many different motor types, the additives needed for your specific outboard motor are missing. Genuine Mercury and Evinrude/Johnson lubricants are blended with the highest quality base stock and additive packages to meet the demands demands of the 2-cycle or 4-cycle outboard engine.  These additives prevent corrosion, reduce foaming and keep your engine properly lubricated. Corrosion is like cancer to your motor; do everything you can to prevent corrosion.

Always choose genuine OEM boat motor oil specifically manufactured for your engine for optimum performance. A few extra dollars now could prevent huge repair bills later.

You can buy genuine Mercury Oil or Evinrude Outboard Oil, lubes and boat parts at our shop anytime. Bring in your refillable container to get bulk oil at a discount.

Review Recommended Care from Mercury for your Mercury Engine.

Happy Labor Day!

Here’s to the many workers have contributed to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country. While we recognize the history of this great nation, Labor Day also marks the last big celebration of the summer season.  So, all you hard workers, get out there and enjoy your weekend. Temperatures will change soon and we will be packing up the boats for the winter.  Have a blast out there while you can!!!

Outboard Motor Maintenance

So you own a Mercury outboard but just haven’t quite kept up on maintenance.  Perhaps you have no idea where you stored the owners manual and are just crossing your fingers that you haven’t forgot any major maintenance items. For anyone who can identify with the above, this article is for you.

Regular engine maintenance is essential to ensuring your engine will provide you with years of trouble-free operation.  Mercury Authorized Dealers have the expertise and training to handle all of your engine maintenance service and needs.  US Boatworks is a Mercury Authorized Premier Dealer with over 30 years experience in repairing and maintaining Mercury Outboard Motors in the Kansas City area.  Please call to schedule your 100 and 300 hour maintenance of your Mercury Outboard or follow the recommended guidelines below.

For the do-it-yourselfer, timely, accurate maintenance is essential.  The maintenance checklist at the bottom of the page is a great reminder of items to be reviewed at both 100 and 300 engine hours.  Next you will find a grease chart for fresh water use to insure the proper product is used on your motor.  Always refer to your specific owners manual or call your authorized Mercury Motors dealer before performing these recommended services.

OILS AND LUBRICANTS  

Oils and lubricants are an integral part to keeping your motor parts moving properly.  Don’t be fooled into buying generic or multi-purpose oils which are inferior to genuine manufacturer oils.  Mercury Oils and Lubricants are specifically engineered for the unique needs of marine engines and rigorously tested to meet high standards. You can get the most out of your engine while having total peace of mind that your engine is being protected when you choose oils manufactured by your engine manufacturer.

GREASE CHART FOR FRESH WATER USE

STEERING SYSTEMS / CABLE, LINKAGES	2-4-C	100 hrs/at least once a yr
THROTTLE AND SHIFT CABLES, LINKAGES	2-4-C	100 hrs
REMOTE CONTROLS	2-4-C	100 hrs/at least once a yr
PROP SHAFT	2-4-C	100hrs/120 days
SWIVEL PINS	2-4-C	100hrs/120 days
TILT LOCK MECHANISM/TILT TUBE	2-4-C	100 days
DRIVE SHAFT SPLINES (ENGINE COUPLERS)	EXTREME	100 hrs/at least once a yr

MAINTENANCE CHECK LIST	100 HRS	300 HRS
INSPECT ENGINE AND ACCESSORIES FOR VISIBLE DAMAGE	♦	♦
RUN ENGINE FOR CORRECT OPERATION, CHECK FOR ANY ACTIVE CODES	♦	♦
DRAIN GEAR HOUSING AND REFILL WITH GEAR LUBE	♦	♦
REPLACE GEAR LUBE	♦	♦
SERVICE WATER PUMP	♦
INSPECT THERMOSTATS, REPLACE IF NECESSARY	♦	♦
LUBRICATE DRIVE SHAFT SPLINES	♦	♦
INSPECT PROPELLER SHAFT NUT, TORQUE IF NECESSARY	♦	♦
INSPECT IGNITION COMPONENTS, REPLACE SPARK PLUGS IF NECESSARY	♦
INSPECT FUEL TANK, FUEL LINES AND CONNECTIONS	♦	♦
INSPECT FUEL FILTERS, REPLACE IF NECESSARY	♦	♦
CHANGE ENGINE OIL AND REPLACE OIL FILTER (FOURSTROKE ONLY)	♦	♦
INSPECT HIGH PRESSURE FILTER, REPLACE IF NECESSARY	♦	♦
CHECK AND INSPECT ANODE, REPLACE IF NECESSARY	♦	♦