Austin Outboard Motor Repair

How to find the best outboard motor repair shop in Austin

While landlocked, Austin is still home to a multitude of boating adventures. Lake Travis and Buchanan Lake are the main two attractions close to the city, offering a great boating experience free of salt water. On the northwestern side of the city, near Lake Travis, is where you’re going to find the majority of the boat repair shops. The difficulty, and importance, lies in finding the right one for your outboard motor needs. Here are some things to keep in mind during your search:

• Never go for the cheapest price. While it may be tempting to go with the mechanic offering you the best deal, more likely than not you’ll be back again to repair whatever they missed or messed up. It’s worth it to spend a little more money and get the job done right.

• Do your research. Explore service shops far and wide to find the best one suited to your needs. How a store is presented in-person or online can tell you a lot. Also, look at the reviews and consult other boaters to learn about their experience. Marine Exchange is a great place to start, offering you a look at the highest rated shops in your area, as well as the customer reviews.

• Consider the make of your outboard motor. Depending on your engine, different shops might be more capable working on, or familiar with what you have. You can also call the customer service line of your motor manufacturer and ask them for recommendations in your area.

How to save money on outboard motor repairs

Repairs on your outboard motor can end up costing you a pretty penny. In order to save yourself the most time and money, it’s important to maintain your motor to the best of your ability. Here are a few maintenance tips for your outboard motor:

• Flush the Engine. Frequently flush out your engine to avoid clogging and corrosion.

• Use Clean Fuel. Clean fuel will keep your engine running happy and smooth. Also, make sure to drain your engine of all fuel when storing it for long periods of time.

• Lubricate. Lubricate all moving parts, such as the shift and throttle, often.

• Clean Fuel Lines & Air Filters. You want to make sure that fuel is running smoothly into your engine and no debris or cracks are causing blocks or leaks.

Eventually, however, at some point or another you are going to encounter a problem that you need professional help with. When you do…

• Bring your own parts. With a little extra effort, if your engine isn’t too old, you should be able to find the parts you need for cheaper than the shop’s marked up prices.

• Talk to the mechanic. Find out the issue is and how to prevent or prolong it in the future, or how to fix it yourself.

• Check Mariner Exchange. Use this tool to find the best mechanic for you.