Outboard Motor and Console Covers: How to Pick the Right Size and Fabric

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Zettum Outboard Motor Cover, 600D Boat Motor Cover Waterproof &… 8.7 ★★★★★ BarcoEquipado score: 8.7 out of 10 See price

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Zettum Outboard Motor Cover, 600D Boat Motor Cover Waterproof &… 8.7 ★★★★★ BarcoEquipado score: 8.7 out of 10 See price

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Why Use an Outboard Cover

An outboard cowling is plastic, and sun dulls it over the years; paint, decals and cable boots suffer too. A cover shields against UV, rain and dust, keeps seagulls from dirtying the motor and reduces the moisture that enters the air intake grilles. On the console, it also protects gauges, GPS screens and controls from fading.

It does not replace proper winterizing, but it extends the life of the motor and saves you from cleaning it every time you head out. There are three formats: cowling covers, full motor covers and console covers.

Types: Cowling, Full Motor and Console

Type	What it covers	When to choose it
Cowling cover	Only the top of the motor	Tilted down at a slip or used often; lighter and cheaper
Full motor cover	Cowling, midsection and sometimes the lower unit	Motor out of the water in a garage or on a trailer
Console cover	Console, wheel and screens	Open boats in the sun; pairs with a boat cover

If you already use a full cover, check boat covers: a console cover only adds value when the rest of the boat is uncovered.

Sizing: By Horsepower, Brand or Measurements

Horsepower is just a reference. The reliable method is to measure the cowling and check the compatibility the manufacturer lists. Universal sizes usually group like this:

Typical size	Approx. horsepower	Motor type
S	2.5 to 15 hp	Portables, small 2 and 4 strokes
M	15 to 40 hp	Lightweight outboards for small boats
L	40 to 90 hp	Motors for center consoles and large inflatables
XL	90 to 150 hp or more	Large-displacement motors

Fabric and Fit

The usual choice is 600D polyester with a waterproof coating, light and affordable. For long use at a marina, a solution-dyed fabric holds up better in sunlight. Look for a cover with an elastic drawcord at the hem or adjustable straps that stop wind from lifting it.

• Sealed seams so water does not seep through needle holes.
• A soft inner lining so the cowling does not get scratched.
• Mesh vents or openings to prevent condensation.
• Reflective trim or light colors reduce heat buildup in summer.

Use, Ventilation and Care

Before you put the cover on, flush the motor with fresh water and let it dry; never cover a hot or wet motor. If you leave the motor tilted down, the lower unit and propeller stay outside the cover: use a cowling cover and check the gear lube and anodes as often as the manual says.

1. Flush the motor with fresh water and let it dry.
2. Fit the cover so it does not rub on fins or on the cooling water tubes.
3. Adjust the cord or straps so it does not move in the wind.
4. Check the cover after every storm and wash it with mild soap, never bleach.

Common Buying Mistakes

• Buying by horsepower alone without measuring the cowling.
• Choosing a waterproof cover with no ventilation and trapping moisture.
• Covering a motor that is still hot or wet.
• Using a console cover on the motor, or the reverse: the shapes do not match.
• Not securing the cover well at a slip exposed to wind.