1987 Sears 15 HP -- tips for before starting engine?

[Pflugerville]

I just bought a 1987 Sears outboard. The previous owner said the motor ran all last year with no problems. It has not been run for a year. I am new to outboards and would like to play with this one. A mechanic did not want to take my money and get the engine running for me -- said parts were hard to get, that the water pump is bound not to work after being idle a year, and the engine would break from time to time. Rather than throwing away the engine, I thought I would try to get it running myself to learn from the experience. Any suggestions as to what I should do before I attempt to crank the engine?

 

[JB]

Re: 1987 Sears 15 HP -- tips for before starting engine?

Look at the Engine FAQ, Greg.<br /><br />Good luck, and welcome aboard.