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One of the bigger problems that exists with outboard motors is combustion deposits. The stuff clogs the exhaust system, create excessive heat buildup in the combustion chamber and causes piston rings to stick in the ring grooves. All of this leads to power loss and eventual motor failure.
Ring sticking is a serious problem. At wide open throttle the piston travels up and down the cylinder over 5000 times a minutes. This is metal against metal and friction is a concern. The only contact wanted in a cylinder is the rings against the cylinder wall. Along with a coat of oil between the piston and the wall the motor survives. If the rings stick into the grooves the piston will no longer "float" in the center of the bore and the piston itself will ride on the cylinder wall. That is more than the oil can handle. Expensive damage is going to happen quickly.
Carbon is a natural by product of burning fuel. Poor quality oil leaves ash when it burns (be sure to use a good TCW-3!). Ash mixed with oil and fired by combustion makes some nasty looking stuff.
To keep deposits to a minimum be sure to use a quality TCW-3 oil. Use good fuel and keep the engine serviced so it provides optimum combustion. After every fifty hours of use treat the engine an internal cleaner (Engine Tuner, Power Tune, etc).
When TCW-3 came onto the market it was thought to be the answer to the carbon problem. It has been less of a problem in the past few years but I still see engines with carbon build up. TCW-3 is not the full answer. Don't neglect the use of tuner. Recently I have heard engine manufacturers recommending using a detergent additive in the gas (such as Carbon Guard or Quick Kleen). Maybe such a three way punch will give a needed freedom from deposits.
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