1985 40hp very hard to start...vapor lock?

[imported_bboat]

This morning I went to work on my 40hp Evinrude and I think I may be experiencing a vapor lock problem...the first few times that I tried to start it, the engine turned over fine...it wouldn't start, so I adjusted a few things (just small carb settings)and tried again...now it barely turns over, almost like it's fighting the starter. If I take the spark plugs out then it turns over fine, but the second I put them and back in it's extremely hard to turn over again.

I took the plugs out and let it air out for 20 minutes, but that didn't help...I just have the same old gas that I've always used (87 octane) and it is getting a spark.

Does anybody ahve any suggestions? Any help would be much appreciated!

 

[Walker]

Re: 1985 40hp very hard to start...vapor lock?

I suspect a battery, cables, or starter problem.

 

[imported_bboat]

Re: 1985 40hp very hard to start...vapor lock?

I suspect a battery, cables, or starter problem.

really?...why does it turn over fine when the spark plugs are taken out then...just less pressure on the engine?

 

[Silvertip]

Re: 1985 40hp very hard to start...vapor lock?

Vapor lock is a "hot engine issue" not a cold engine issue. As suggested, check and clean the battery cables (both ends) and make sure they shiny clean. Tighten fasteners with a wrench. If the problem still exists, try a different battery. Those engines need to spin fairly fast to start and a weak battery won't cut it. If clean cables and known good, fully charged battery doesn't solve the problem, it may be a starter issue such as tight or worn bearings, bad brushes, etc. Your local auto electric (starter/alternator rebuilder) should be able to rebuild it for you cheaper than a new starter.

 

[imported_bboat]

Re: 1985 40hp very hard to start...vapor lock?

problem solved...quess it was a lose wiring problem after all...I'll check that next time befire making a thread about it!...thanks for your input everyone

 

[R.Johnson]

Re: 1985 40hp very hard to start...vapor lock?

You have a "spun' hub On your flywheel, check the inter-wheel trigger on the flywheel, see if you can turn it by hand/.