62' Evinrude Lark 40HP - tune up parts needed?

[Raracah]

I just bought a boat with a 1962 Evinrude 40HP Lark IV Model 3531 manual shift on it. Put new gas to her and fired her up in a barrel. She started right up, but smoked like crazy. I only ran her for 1-2 minutes, exhaust water was flowing and she idled good. My question is about tune-up parts. I want to do as much as I can to help make the motor as dependable as possible for this season. From reading a bit on this forum, I gather I should replace the impeller and do a carb rebuild? Is that it or should I have a punch list of "important" things to tend to? Any suggestions are greatly appreciated.

 

[Evinrude Boater]

Re: 62' Evinrude Lark 40HP - tune up parts needed?

Welcome to iBoats.
You should check the oil in the lower unit too. If it's milky water is getting in and mixing with the oil. It's hard to know what else the motor needs not knowing its history. You may not need to rebuild the carb if it runs good. My theory, "If it's not broke, don't break it". The smoke would be from the oil you mixed in the fuel. That's a good thing. Why don't you take it for a good run after doing the water pump and checking the gear oil and see how it performs?

 

[Raracah]

Re: 62' Evinrude Lark 40HP - tune up parts needed?

Thanks for the welcome and the info. I agree with the "if it ain't broke" idea. I do have a couple more questions though. What is the difference between just putting in a new impeller and doing the whole water pump and is there a way to tell which I should do? Also, the controls that are on the boat look original to the motor and are not in the greatest shape (hard to move). I have tried lubing them and working them, they are still stiff. Can you get new controls that work with this motor or do you need to find a better old one? Thanks!

 

[Evinrude Boater]

Re: 62' Evinrude Lark 40HP - tune up parts needed?

If you replace only the inpeller it may or may not improve. It's the most important part however the plate that is spins on gets worn and grooved allowing wateer to escape. You're best to replace the entire water pump to be sure. Why risk it?
You should be able to get new cables. I understand that's what's seized, not the control box levers.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: 62' Evinrude Lark 40HP - tune up parts needed?

i have a '58 35 hp, just redid it. replaced impeller, coils,condensers,points, plug wires, and a carb kit for around $150, now i have a like new engine. parts are available at laingsoutboards.com order everything at one time, because he ususally only charges $5.00 shipping. questions just call the 1-800 number, Jeff is great to work with.