1983 15 hp evinrude has spark will not start

eddie_m

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I bought a 1983 15 hp evinrude it has great spark , removed spark plugs poured gas in cylinders replaced spark plugs , still did not start only a loud backfire . It seems like it is out of timing is there any way to set the time on this type of outboard ?
 

mettyfish

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Re: 1983 15 hp evinrude has spark will not start

What have you done so far? First things first. Are you hooking a tank to it and priming or pumping the ball. Did you check spark on both cylinders? Choke on? Did you open vent on tank. Good new gas mixed 50 to one. When you pump the ball is gas getting to carb? Pull gas line off carb and pump ball and see if gas is getting that far. You need to give us a little more info as to what exactly you have tried. Mettyfish
 

backyard mechanic

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Re: 1983 15 hp evinrude has spark will not start

First things first indeed... have you checked compression? IF you have compression then it is possible your timing is out. That era engine most likely has electronic ignition but timing has to be correct. In other words, this isn't a point engine so look at your manual and find where TDC is and where the EXACT opposite is for cyl. #2. This is most likely done in the trigger assy. so all the wires have to be correctly placed etc. A manual is required...
 

Brianjason6

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Re: 1983 15 hp evinrude has spark will not start

I would check my plug order before touching anything else. It could be that simple.
 

mikesea

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Re: 1983 15 hp evinrude has spark will not start

as the last guy said,it could be the plug wires are reversed,,either the large plug wires OR the smaller coil wires,a backfire is a classic symptom.BUT,if they seem ok,pull the flywheel and check the keyway in the crankshaft,that would screw up your timing,also insure that the timer base under the flywheel is rotating with the throttle
 

eddie_m

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Re: 1983 15 hp evinrude has spark will not start

Today i checked the compression and it low one cylinder reads 60 the other is at 94. What are my options now, to rebuild this motor is it going to be too much for someone who has never done this before, and price wise is it worth it?" IF IT AINT BROKE " ----- DONT BREAK IT !!!!!:rolleyes:
 

bktheking

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Re: 1983 15 hp evinrude has spark will not start

Could be as simple as a leaking head gasket, pull the head, check the gasket, check the head for warpage, check the cylinder walls for damage.
 

eddie_m

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Re: 1983 15 hp evinrude has spark will not start

I pulled the head, it looks alright. The gasket looks a little messed up on the bottom of one side. How can I tell if the head is warped? The cylinder walls look good, smooth but one piston has like (pitting?) on the top.
"IF IT AINT BROKE"--------DON'T BREAK IT!!!!!!:rolleyes:
 

Rick.

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Re: 1983 15 hp evinrude has spark will not start

To check the head I put some 120 grit sand paper on a piece of glass and then start sanding the head in a circular motion until it's flat. You can tell by looking at the mating surface after a little bit of sanding how bad/good it is. Head gasket leaks are common so it is worth a try. Best of luck. Rick.
 

eddie_m

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Re: 1983 15 hp evinrude has spark will not start

I did the sand paper test on the head , looks pretty straight , bought new head gasket, installed to manual specs, check compression it is still low. Now i think i have to install new cylinder rings . Is this a job too hard for someone new at this.[/B][/QUOTE]
 

bktheking

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Re: 1983 15 hp evinrude has spark will not start

On both cylinders or just one?
 

eddie_m

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Re: 1983 15 hp evinrude has spark will not start

A little more compression but still low yes on both one is 90s the other is in the 60s
 

eddie_m

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Re: 1983 15 hp evinrude has spark will not start

YOU WERE RIGHT !, i opened the powerhead and pulled the pistons out , and the rings were stuck. Do you know of a web site where i can buy some rings ?
 

Rick.

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Re: 1983 15 hp evinrude has spark will not start

Too Bad you didn't try the seafoam first. New rings will be a nice thing to have in any case. I've never bought rings but someone will have. Rick.
 
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