Kip’s Comments - August 16, 2025

Correcting My Reduced Pee Stream

Over time a guy’s outboard pee stream tends to change. The flow rate may be reduced to a spit and sputter or maybe it is just inadequate. A reduced pee stream is reason for concern. Is your plumbing in trouble or do you maybe need to replace your impeller/water pump? Unless you invest the time needed to determine what is going on, you risk catastrophic damage to your outboard. When your pee stream is reduced, you need to pay attention.

A couple of times during recent outings I have noticed a lack of force in my pee stream. There seemed to be ample flow to keep the engine cool, but not what I expected. Fortunately I have not experienced any complications yet.

Outboard Pee Stream - Sputtering - Image 1013295

After fishing with Kristy today I did some investigating as the stream changed again. First I had force, then sputtering, then almost nothing and suddenly force again. By pulling the outboard cover off and straightening the pee tube I was able run a thin (but stiff) wire in the tube. As expected I was able to remove a partial obstruction that appeared to be an insect or spider nest inside my pee tube. After that extraction the flow was great and consistent.

Outboard Pee Stream - Good Flow - Image 1013303

I had a similar situation a few years ago so I was not entirely surprised. Maybe I need to cap the output line/opening when the boat is not being used? Maybe just a small piece of tape to cover the outlet when off the water? What I want is something simple to prevent this situation from happening again. At least I know how to fix the problem.

For those wondering, we did catch bluegills today - mostly small fish, but we caught fish! All were released to grow to be caught again.

Bluegill on Fishing Line - Image 1013205