Wide Open Marine

04/03/2026

“Motor runs fine once it’s up on pad, really starting get hard to get on plane”

This engine was on track to burn down and lose compression had it not been brought in to have injectors checked.

Don’t let the old “it’s just cold blooded and getting tired” cost you a motor.

04/02/2026

Details will be posted to the website this weekend by 4/5

Wideopenmarinemn.com

Looking forward to another great tournament!

03/01/2026

We don’t just fix boats — we diagnose the problem accurately the first time and get you back on the water faster. Reliable repairs, minimal downtime, and expert solutions every step of the way.

02/23/2026

Clean power+Clean rigging= Fewer issues for you on the water

02/22/2026

The schedule is starting to fill up! Give us a call or send us a message to get your boat ready for spring!

12/04/2025

⚠️ Don’t Skip the Warm-Up — It Can Save Your Engine ⚠️

Cold seizure is one of the fastest ways to destroy an outboard motor — and it happens more often than most boaters realize. Starting a cold engine and immediately hammering the throttle doesn’t give internal parts time to expand evenly. When that happens, pistons can scuff or seize in the cylinder, leading to catastrophic engine failure in seconds.

✅ Always allow your outboard to fully warm up before getting on plane.
Let oil circulate. Let metal expand. Let water temps stabilize. Those few extra minutes at idle can save you thousands in repairs.

But that’s only half the battle…

🚨 A thermostat stuck open from debris is a silent engine killer.
Sand, shells, weeds, or corrosion can hold a thermostat open, preventing the engine from ever reaching proper operating temperature. When an engine runs too cool:
• Fuel doesn’t burn efficiently
• Moisture doesn’t evaporate
• Internal wear accelerates
• And the risk of cold seizure skyrockets

Catching this early during routine maintenance can be the difference between a simple thermostat cleaning and a completely blown powerhead.

🔧 Bottom line:
Warm your engine every time.
Inspect your thermostat regularly.
Never assume “cold running is safe running.”
Pay attention to all alarms.

A few minutes of patience and a simple inspection can protect your motor, your money, and your time on the water.

10/14/2025

Winterizing season is here! Give us a call to get your boat on the schedule.

10/14/2025

08/24/2025

PSA to all Merc V8 4 stroke owners out there

06/14/2025

Results from the Wide Open Marine Waconia Classic June 14th 2025