Outboard Motor Earmuff Has Cracking: How to Fix?

Cracking in outboard motor earmuffs can occur due to various reasons. Some of these include:

1. Material Aging: Over time, the material of the earmuffs, usually rubber or plastic, can become brittle and crack due to constant exposure to water, sunlight, and varying temperature conditions.
2. Physical Stress: Earmuffs may crack under physical stress if they’re not handled properly. This might happen if they are forced onto an outboard motor that is too large for them or if they’re dropped or mishandled.
3. Freezing Conditions: In colder climates, any water remaining inside the earmuffs can freeze. The expansion that occurs when water freezes could potentially cause the earmuffs to crack.
4. Chemical Exposure: Exposure to certain chemicals or oils could potentially degrade the material of the earmuffs, leading to cracks.

Once you’ve identified that your outboard motor earmuffs have cracked, it’s important to replace them immediately. Using cracked earmuffs can lead to ineffective flushing of the outboard motor, which can in turn lead to more serious engine problems.

To prevent cracking in the future, consider the following steps

1. Proper Storage: Store your earmuffs in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight when not in use. This helps prevent material degradation due to UV rays and extreme temperatures.
2. Gentle Handling: Handle your earmuffs gently during installation and removal to avoid causing physical stress that could lead to cracking.
3. Regular Inspection: Regularly check your earmuffs for signs of wear and tear. Early detection of minor cracks can prevent them from worsening over time.
4. Correct Size: Ensure that you’re using the correct size of earmuffs for your outboard motor. Using earmuffs that are too small could lead to unnecessary stress on the material, causing it to crack.

Remember, maintaining your outboard motor earmuffs is as important as maintaining your outboard motor itself. Regular inspection and proper care of your earmuffs can help extend their life and ensure efficient flushing of your outboard motor.

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