2 stroke motor went underwater - what to do

frankrizzo

Cadet
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May 5, 2014
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21
I just purchased a boat that has a merc 125hp 2 strok motor that went underwater about a week ago. What should I do first when i get it to potentially bring it back too life.
 

Chris1956

Supreme Mariner
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Mar 25, 2004
Messages
28,526
Saltwater or freshwater?

For either, you must leave it underwater until you can work on it and completely fix it.

Saltwater immersion means complete disassembly. Saltwater often ruins electrical parts as well. Starter would need disassembly and cleaning, in addition to engine block, pistons, crankshaft, bearings etc..

Freshwater immersion means oil in the cylinders and crankcase, fresh fuel, and running it in a barrel or other water for 45 minutes to dry it out.
 

GA_Boater

Honorary Moderator Emeritus
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May 24, 2011
Messages
49,038
What ever you do - Don't turn the motor over with the spark plugs in!

Also spray 2 stroke oil in the plug holes after water stops pumping out and rotate the flywheel to spread the oil.
 

Scott Danforth

Grumpy Vintage Moderator still playing with boats
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Jul 23, 2011
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51,726
I just purchased a boat that has a merc 125hp 2 strok motor that went underwater about a week ago. What should I do first when i get it to potentially bring it back too life.
You need to work quickly. The day you pull it out of water, you need to pull the plugs, spin it over to clear it out. Then clean the fuel system and get it running

If its been in salt water for a week, you may only be able to part it out
 
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