1960 Evinrude 75hp hard starting

[nicnbj]

I have a 1960 Evinrude that I'm having trouble starting. The manual pull start pulls particular hard and even then I can't get any fire. When I try to start it from the switch the starter engages but it can't turn the engine over. The starter battery is brand new and plenty big enough. If I pull out a couple plugs it can then but very slow. I'm currently having the starter looked at and rebuilt just in case this is part of the problem. Would putting WD40 in the spark plug holes help the engine turn over easier? Also, the engine has two places for a starter, am I suppose to have two starters on this engine? I have replaced all gas hoses, new spark plug wires and plugs and have new gas (24/1 ratio) in the tank. I'm stumped, please help.

 

[Joe Reeves]

Re: 1960 Evinrude 75hp hard starting

Nicnbj.... The engine uses only one starter. That other location would be for a generator if they were still available.<br /><br />If the starter checks out okay, check all the cables for loose or tight but dirty/corroded connections. They can usually be located by feeling the cable which will be hot near the problem area.<br /><br />The fact that the engine turns/pulls hard with the manual starter would indicate that either the lower unit or the powerhead might have a problem of sorts. To find out which one, remove the lower unit. Do not put WD40 into the engine, simply spray a light oil in the cylinders.<br /><br />You can safely use the later 50/1 fuel/oil mixture in that engine.

 

[nicnbj]

Re: 1960 Evinrude 75hp hard starting

Joe,<br />I have replaced the oil, impellar and gasket in the lower unit. I will check the connections etc. and get back to you.<br /><br />Thanks,

 

[Terry H]

Re: 1960 Evinrude 75hp hard starting

nic...I think that other bracket is for a generator...how long has it been since it was started? If it has been a long time then you might remove the plugs and squirt some premix in the cylinders and same thing down the carb to get the crankcase, turn it over as best you can to get the bearings oiled up well. If you need to put a tarp down for alot of that oil will end up running out the exhaust onto the ground. Try that, it should free up if everything is sound...just a Thought

 

[nicnbj]

Re: 1960 Evinrude 75hp hard starting

Joe and Thought101,<br />The engine has been sitting for about 2 years and the previous owner said it ran fine when he had it. All wiring looks good and doesn't seem to get hot anywhere. Could it be something in the coil pack? I will keep trying, maybe it will loosen up. Any more tips would be great.<br /><br />Thanks a bunch!