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For boat owners, hurricane season means more than stocking up on supplies. A little preparation before a storm can significantly reduce the risk of damage to your boat and help you get back on the water more quickly afterward. While every storm is different, having a plan before watches and warnings are issued gives you the best chance of protecting your investment. Don't Wait Until the Last Minute One of the biggest mistakes boat owners make is waiting until a hurricane is only a day or two aw …

If you've shopped for marine parts before, you've probably noticed that some products carry the Mercury name while others are branded Quicksilver. It's a common question we hear from boat owners: Are they the same, and does it matter which one I buy? The short answer is yes, they're closely related, but there are a few important differences that can help you choose the right part for your engine. The Same Company, Different Purpose Both Mercury and Quicksilver are brands owned by Mercury Marine …

7 Ways to Improve Your Boat's Fuel Efficiency Fuel economy is something every boat owner cares about, especially with today's fuel prices. Many people assume poor fuel efficiency means there is something wrong with the engine, but that is not always the case. In reality, fuel consumption is affected by dozens of factors, including propeller selection, engine trim, boat weight, maintenance, and even how the boat is loaded. Small changes in setup, maintenance, and operating habits can make a notic …

Mercury Guardian Mode Explained If your Mercury outboard suddenly loses power, will not accelerate, or begins sounding an alarm, your engine may have entered Guardian Mode. Guardian Mode is Mercury's built-in engine protection system. It is designed to help prevent serious damage by reducing engine performance when certain problems are detected. While it can be frustrating, Guardian Mode is actually doing its job by helping protect your engine. What Is Guardian Mode? Guardian Mode monitors vario …

Not every boat maintenance task requires a trip to the shop. There are several basic service items most boat owners can safely handle themselves with the right tools, parts, and a little guidance. Staying on top of routine maintenance can help extend the life of your engine and reduce the chances of unexpected problems on the water. The key is knowing which jobs are DIY-friendly and which ones are better left to experienced marine technicians. Changing Engine Oil and Filters Routine oil changes …