1961 5.5 H.P. Evinrude: Worth Rebuilding?

[sailing1258]

I had this motor professionally evaluated, and was told it needed a new plate, new points, new coils, and had a loose rod. Basically, I was told it wasn't worth the money to have it repaired professionally. Can the parts be obtained (O.E.M. or aftermarket) for an older Evinrude motor at reasonable prices? I was told the compression was good, but not great. (55 lbs both cylinders) Is a rebuild necessary? Are there companies that make aftermarket parts? The repairman told me a new plate for this particular motor would run $300.00. Can you find good used parts out there? If so, where?

 

[Chinewalker]

Re: 1961 5.5 H.P. Evinrude: Worth Rebuilding?

Those old 5.5s are VERY common motors - made for about 10 years from 1954 to 1964. As such, finding parts isn't hard if you're willing to look around a bit. Best bet is to find a parts motor - perhaps one with a busted up lower unit and good powerhead. Heck, you ought to be able to find a half-dozen parts motors for the $300 your guy quoted you just for the plate. Try Craigslist, eBay, your local outboard boneyards, etc. I think I might try a different "professional", too. Sometimes showing up at coffee time with a box of donuts can grease the skids a bit to get them to let you poke around their back-room/shed/attic where they stow the clunkers and junkers...

Ignition parts are available right here in iBoats, as well as your local Johnrude Dealer. If you're willing to learn and find yourself a good manual, doing the work yourself isn't too difficult. Lots of folks have done it - just look around the forums!

The 5.5s are great little motors and worth putting a bit of time and money into. Enjoy!

- Scott

 

[OptsyEagle]

Re: 1961 5.5 H.P. Evinrude: Worth Rebuilding?

For $300, you should be able to find a whole new motor. Use the one you have for a parts motor.

 

[sailing1258]

Re: 1961 5.5 H.P. Evinrude: Worth Rebuilding?

Thanks for the advice! I'll keep my eyes open for another 5.5 H.P. Evinrude motor through the various sources mentioned. It doesn't look real difficult to work on one, if you take your time and don't use a hammer. Actually, I think it would be fun and challenging to bring the thing back to life. The only question I would have is: Are the primary parts interchangable between the various 5.5 H.P. Evinrude motors produced over the 10 year span they were made? Such as the plate, coils, etc., or would I need to stick to a 1961?