I am selling a boat (buying something bigger). Someone is coming to look at it over the weekend, and mentioned that they would like to start it up. It is 13f here now and the high over the weekend is supposed to be 20f. The motor is a 25hp Mercury outboard tiller, I have been told these are self draining. But still, is this a good idea? I have thought that I would tell him that I will start it as long as he is going to buy it, and just wants to make sure it runs before paying and driving off with it. Thanks in advance for the feedback.

It wont be a problem just try to let it warm up before shutting it down. It's freezing in Florida too,about 2 weeks ago the low was 15 and high was 32 and I fired up my motor no problem and now its a brutal 74 out

I assume you know that it has to be in water or at least hooked to a motor flusher so it won't destroy the water pump.

Yes I do, Wayne. But thanks - if i hadn't that would have been some valuable information!

I was just worried about the water freezing in the motor and causing damage. Sounds like that is not a big deal, though?

no not a problem shut the water off then the motor dont wait more than about 10 sec, on that motor you should b efine

Be sure to let it run long enough so that any condensation is evaporated off.

Well, I guess it worked cause it started right up and I sold it!  Thanks for the info everyone.

Now to find my next boat!

what are you gonna get???