motor went swimming

[gunslinger10mm]

I was screwing around with the kids, who were swimming on the beach. I usually make a sharp turn nearby and a big wave rolls into them. This time however, I didnt have the clamps tight enough and...yup, you guest it. The motor tumbled off the back of the boat and into the drink. I was left holding the gas line as it sank in (luckily) 6 feet of water. It would have been prime material for Funniest Home Videos. Anyway, this happened last summer, after it happened, I drained the float bowl, pullled the plugs and drain the cylinders and replaced the plugs. Unfortunately I cant get it to start. I appears that I dont have any spark. Anyone got an idea as to what the problem might be? The motor is a 1957 Johnson 10hp , and is in great condition. Your advice would be much appriciated.<br />CJ

 

[jameswilson95]

Re: motor went swimming

I would follow the manuals sugestions...if the motor will not start diagnose as fuel, electrical, or mechanical and correct.<br />It also suggests cleaning your engine and oiling all parts if the motor will be sitting for any length of time after it has been removed from being immersed. Rust sets in quickly. When you get her running...the manual suggests running for an hour approx. to get rid of any remaining water. It might not hurt to run it oil rich for a tank of fuel.

 

[CATransplant]

Re: motor went swimming

This happened a year ago, right? At least that's what I'm reading from your message.<br /><br />It's always best to take care of a dunked engine as soon as possible, meaning within 24 hours. The problem is that the engine was running when it went into the drink. That means that some water almost certainly got into the crankcase. That can lead to problems with rusting bearing surfaces, and worse.<br /><br />Does your 10 hp turn over at all now? I mean, can you pull it through with the rope? Did you run it at all immediately after the incident?<br /><br />If you did, then you'll probably be OK. If not, you may have to spend more than your old Johnson is worth to fix it.

 

[TTravis]

Re: motor went swimming

Don't feel bad. I had the same thing happen to me a few years back. I did get it serviced right away tough. Now days I bolt the motor to the transom whenever possible. Good Luck

 

[oldboat1]

Re: motor went swimming

On the bright side, if it had been the RDS-20, you probably wouldn't have been able to haul it back on board. If it is not stuck, you might be able to get her up and running again. Test for spark, and refresh or replace the points if necessary. But if the current powerhead can't be put back into running shape, you can always find a replacement -- not that big a problem to just replace it with one from salvage. And locating a replacement is part of the fun.