61 Evinrude 40HP Won't Start

[61crosby]

Hi all,

I have a 1961 Evinrude 40HP Lark OB (Model 35520) that will no longer start. It had not been ran in over ten years until last June. When I got the boat, I changed the oils/fuel/sparkplugs and she started right up. After a little tweaking, she ran great. I took the boat out at least once a week and it ran smoothly from June to end of August. Then, it wouldn't start one day. It cranks over normally, just will not start. I am thinking of replacing the points and condenser, possibly the reed (or leaf?) valves. Any other suggestions? I am hoping not to have to find a flywheel puller haha... Any help would be appreciated, thanks.

 

[bktheking]

Re: 61 Evinrude 40HP Won't Start

Forget the reeds, that's more than likely the least of your problem. Let's start by diagnosing instead of suggesting. Have you got spark for starters, spark on both, spark on one? You may not need to replace anything, could be a bad switch, ground issue, dirty points, points that need adjusting. Go check spark, post back.

 

[61crosby]

Re: 61 Evinrude 40HP Won't Start

Yes, I probably should have mentioned that. I tested a while ago for spark, got it on both cylinders. The points do look pretty dirty. Tried cleaning them but a couple days ago but didn't help, ofcourse maybe I just need to get better tools and clean them right.

 

[JB]

Re: 61 Evinrude 40HP Won't Start

http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=299680

 

[bktheking]

Re: 61 Evinrude 40HP Won't Start

Ok so next step, what about fuel? Have you tried spraying 50:1 mix into the carb to see if it will fire?