40HP VRO rebuild: Buy or DIY

[Ponchojuan]

40HP VRO rebuild: Buy or DIY

Well my 1989 Evinrude 40 VRO has had it. Lost compression in one cylinder and rapping. The question is whether to buy a rebuilt powerhead, or buy a rebuild kit and do it myself. <br /><br />The only part of the process that concerns me is the need for any special tools. The factory service manual references all sorts of OMC supplied widgets. The question for you all is which ones do you really need beyond a normal mechanics tool chest? Also they describe manufacturing two of your own tools: A retaining ring plier and a taper pin tool.<br /><br />Here is a list of OMC tools mentioned in the text:<br /><br />OMC Lifting eye 321537<br />OMC Puller Bridge 432127<br />OMC Small Puller 432131<br />OMC Torque Socket 331638<br />Retaining ring Pliers 325937<br />OMC Piston Cradle 326573<br />OMC Wrist Pin Pressing Pin 326673<br />OMC Seal Installer 334500<br />OMC Seal Installer 339752<br />OMC Cone 318600<br />OMC Driver 318599<br />OMC Ring Compressor 326592<br />OMC Rod Cap Alignment Fixture 396749<br /><br />In addition there is a list of all sorts of chemicals:<br /><br />OMC GASKET SEALING COMPOUND<br />Gel Seal II<br />OMC Needle Bearing Grease<br />OMC Moly Lube<br />OMC Locquic Primer<br />And good old Triple Guard.<br /><br />What is really necessary in this list beyond normal shop tools and compounds?<br /><br />Any pointers are appreciated.<br /><br />poncho

 

[CharlesW]

Re: 40HP VRO rebuild: Buy or DIY

Re: 40HP VRO rebuild: Buy or DIY

Based strictly on my experiences in working on an outboard or an I/O for that matter, the mechanics know all the little things that make the job so much easier. They know what needs to be taken off, what needs to be loosened, how to get the part loose and off the motor. Plus, they know where to find the part described in the manual. If it isn't shown in a picture, I haven't a clue where to even find many of the parts they talk about.<br />I guess what I'm saying is don't DIY unless you have a lot of patience.<br /><br />Charles

 

[G DANE]

Re: 40HP VRO rebuild: Buy or DIY

Re: 40HP VRO rebuild: Buy or DIY

Well - I only did one rebuild and that was on a 35 HP but I've repaired several and had them apart and together again. I dont own any special tool apart from a flywheel puller. Snap ring plier is a cheap one, try wall-mart or napa. Pullers can be rented. Apart from that ask when manual specifies one - someone here will explainn you how to cheat. If you are not mechanical encliened or had motors apart before, I wouldnt recommend it though.

 

[Ponchojuan]

Re: 40HP VRO rebuild: Buy or DIY

Re: 40HP VRO rebuild: Buy or DIY

I have all the tools that would be needed for a normal automotive engine rebuild. But like many of you said, the tricks are in the details. My guess, even though I have done numerous auto engine rebuilds, this will take me at least twice the time to do then usual.<br /><br />The bigger issue is there are always one or two special tricks or tools. For example, I would never attempt a timing belt R&R on an Audi 12V without the special camsprocket tool. More guys get in big trouble trying to not use the manufacturer designed tools. Sometime they just pay.<br /><br />I was not sure if special tools are truly an issue here. My guess is probably not, but worth asking. <br /><br />It looks like the difference between buying a rebuilt powerhead and rebuilding one yourself is about $500. Might be worth the time and trouble to buy the powerhead. What do you think?<br /><br />Poncho