How long can you run an outboard with out water?

Because the water pump on an outboard engine consist, in part, of a rubber impeller, dry running causes almost instant damage. In as little as  30 seconds the impeller can become unservicable. A run with no water for one minute or longer, in plastic housing applications, begins housing melt down and powerhead/seal damage. It is not good practice to run your outboard without water.

First answer by Beaufort. Last edit by Beaufort. Contributor trust: 80 [recommend contributor]. Question popularity: 3 [recommend question]