Which items should be checked on an outboard motor?

Inspecting an outboard motor encompasses ensuring its operational integrity and safety. The presence of both the bilge plug and bilge pump is crucial for preventing water accumulation in the boat's hull, which can lead to instability and motor issues. The bilge plug prevents water from entering the bilge area while the bilge pump actively removes any excess water that may accumulate. This inspection is essential for maintaining a safe and operational vessel.

While other items like ballast plugs, engine filters, and control cables also play important roles in the operation and safety of a boat, they are not as directly tied to the specific functioning of an outboard motor during an inspection. For example, ballast plugs relate more to stability rather than the outboard's operational mechanics, while spark plugs and filters focus on the engine's performance rather than immediate safety concerns tied to water management. Thus, checking the bilge plug and bilge pump provides immediate assurance that water management systems are functioning properly, making it the most relevant choice for an outboard motor inspection.