transporting an outboard

[huntingislife]

I will probably be hauling a 2-stroke merc in the next few days. Is it fine to just lay the motor on its side or does it need to stay vertical? Thanks

[Fishin4Life]

I always lay the motor on it's side. Never had any issues, with the 2-strokes you don't really have to worry about any fluids leaking. I feel that if I stand it up it has more potential to do damage due to tipping over and such. Just be careful not to damage any controls on the side of the motor when laying it down, maybe bring a few towels or something with to rest it on.

[Ralph Wiggum]

I always lay it down, too. Never any problems.

[huntingislife]

Great. I was hoping I wasn't gonna have to hassle with keeping it stood up.

[Valv]

Be sure if it has the shift lever on the outside, to lay it on the opposite side, drain water or clean prop hub so it won't spill gunky/oily stuff all over the carpet (if you use car/suv), check that cowl (hood) rests with not much pressure or remove it to be certain it won't crack at first pothole. Otherwise there's no problem at all transporting it.

[marine_man]

As an FYI... 4 strokes are a different story.. they are particular about which side you lay them down so the oil doesn't drain out of the crankcase.

marine_man