Introduction An outboard engine that won’t start doesn’t always need expensive replacement parts. In many cases, the problem is caused by something simple, such as stale fuel, a flat battery, a blocked fuel line, or an incorrectly fitted emergency stop lanyard. This guide takes you through 15 checks, starting with the quickest and easiest before […]
The UK’s Marine Marketplace & Knowledge Centre A UK marketplace dedicated to small boats, outboards and marine spare parts. Whether you’re searching for a replacement propeller, a hard-to-find carburettor, a complete outboard engine, or simply looking for advice on repairing your boat, you’ve come to the right place. OutboardBits has been created specifically for the […]
Learn how to diagnose and repair common outboard engine problems, including starting issues, fuel faults, ignition failures, overheating, low compression, and routine maintenance. Suitable for Mercury, Mariner, Yamaha, Johnson, Evinrude, Honda, Suzuki, and Tohatsu outboards.
Small boats are practical, affordable, and easy to handle, but comfort is often sacrificed for simplicity. The good news is that a few small modifications can make a huge difference when you’re spending hours on the water. Whether you fish, cruise, or explore the coastline, these simple upgrades can turn a basic boat into a […]
How to Restore a Faded GRP Hull to a Shine (UK Small Boats) UK small boats take a real battering from the elements. Saltwater, rain, UV exposure, and long winter lay-ups can quickly leave a GRP (glass reinforced plastic) hull looking dull and chalky. Whether you own a small fishing boat, RIB, speedboat, or trailer […]
How to Safely Bring a Fish Aboard in a Small Open Boat Bringing a fish aboard a small open boat can be one of the most dangerous moments of the trip — especially when fishing alone or in rough conditions. Large fish, sharp hooks, and sudden movement can easily lead to injury or even capsize […]
How to Keep Bait Fresh on a Small Boat (Step-by-Step) Common Mistakes That Ruin Bait Quickly Avoiding these mistakes alone will dramatically improve bait quality. Quick Checklist Final Thoughts Fresh bait catches more fish — it’s that simple. With a bit of planning and these easy bait-keeping tips for small boats, you’ll spend more time […]
The Best Tools Every Small-Boat Owner Should Carry Meta title: Best Tools for Small Boat Owners | Essential Boat Toolkit UK Meta description: Discover the best tools every small-boat owner should carry. Essential onboard toolkit for small boats, fishing boats, and outboards in the UK. Whether you’re pottering along the coast, heading out fishing off […]
Common Causes of Poor Idle on Small Outboards 1. Dirty or Blocked Carburettor (Most Common) At idle, the engine relies on tiny idle and pilot jets. Even a small amount of dirt or old fuel varnish can block them. Symptoms Fix 2. Old or Contaminated Fuel Petrol goes stale quickly, especially with ethanol. Symptoms Fix […]
How to Wire a Basic 12V System on Small Boats A simple 12-volt system can transform a small boat. It allows you to run navigation lights, a bilge pump, USB chargers, a fish finder, or a VHF radio — all safely and reliably. This guide explains how a basic 12V system works, what components you […]
A Beginner’s Guide to Bilge Pumps If you own a small boat, a bilge pump is one of the most important bits of safety equipment onboard. It’s not glamorous, but when water starts collecting where it shouldn’t, a bilge pump can make the difference between a minor issue and a serious problem. This guide explains […]
