Why does my outboard motor die when I put it in gear?
Why does my outboard motor die when I put it in gear? Why Does My Outboard Motor Die When I Put It In Gear? Outboard engine RPM's are lower when they are in gear. They can die when put in gear because one or more cylinders may have a problem and are not firing. Once in gear the RPM's are so low that the engine dies. Is it okay to start a boat motor out of water? Starting a boat without water is not recommended. Most outboard and inboard engines use impellers (rubber pumps) to run water to the boat's...