1997 Honda BF15A Outboard

[wbj1940]

When running the engine makes a "clacking noise" and increases/decreases with the speed of the engine. We put a stethascope on it and we can't determine where the noise is originating. The engine starts and runs ok. It sound like it is originating under the rope starting mechanism. Is this normal for an engine of this year? Would timing or improper tension on the belt cause this? The belt is tight and isn't cracked/worn. The engine has been stored since 2006 in my garage and was winterized every year. Thanks in advance for any advice you provide to me. Bill

 

[cp]

Re: 1997 Honda BF15A Outboard

Sounds like what my buddy's BF50s had.

Turned out the magneto magnets under the flywheel had corroded slightly and the laminations had expanded just enough to barely make contact with the sensor as they spun around, hence the correlation with speed. (That's my understanding of what he told me.) He said you can tell by unbolting the flywheel and looking for signs of rubbing (shiny areas) under it, where the magnets are.

You can sand the magnets down a little to temporarily fix the problem and to confirm if "that's it". It's critical to fix it because if the contact between the spinning and stationary parts becomes greater there will be catastrophic failure, with loss of timing and engine shutdown, possibly stranding you out on the water. Sanding is obviously not a final fix because the magnets will expand again as they corrode again. A permanent fix requires replacing the flywheel which, part alone, cost my buddy $300.

Good luck, hope you get it fixed. Post back here to let us all know if that was in fact the problem, so we can all learn from your experience.

 

[wbj1940]

Re: 1997 Honda BF15A Outboard

Guys: I sold the motor "as is". I explained what the above person had suggested the problem might be and aftering hearing it run he purchased the engine. I compensated him for the above perceived problem and we we both happy with the deal. Thanks again. Bill