| Overheat alarm / low water pressure |
Inspect drive intake screens, sea strainer (if equipped), hoses for kinks, and impeller condition; verify thermostat operation |
Water pump/impeller kit, intake screen, thermostat, cooling hoses |
| Poor acceleration or power loss |
Check fuel quality, water‑separating filter, spark plugs, throttle/EFI operation, and propeller condition/pitch |
Fuel filter, spark plugs, fuel pump, propeller |
| Hard starting / rough idle |
Verify battery voltage and connections, inspect plugs and ignition leads, check for vacuum leaks; on EFI, inspect IAC/idle air passages |
Spark plugs, starter, alternator, gaskets/hoses |
| Gearcase noise or metal in gear oil |
Check gear oil level/condition, inspect for water intrusion, examine prop shaft seals (fishing line), and u‑joint bellows condition |
Lower unit seal kit, gear lube, prop hardware |
| Rapid anode loss / corrosion |
Confirm correct anode material for water type; inspect bonding/grounding straps and shore power leakage |
Anodes, bonding wires/straps |