'74 Evinrude 135HP Outboard not running

[gener8r]

I recently got a boat and motor from my father-in-law that has been in storage in his garage for the last 16 or so years. The last time it was run he did not realize that it would be the last time and it wasn't fogged or anything. I siphoned all the old fuel out of the tank and pulled and cleaned the spark plugs. After putting in fresh mixed fuel and installing a new battery, I tried to fire up the motor. The motor turned over and actually started for a second (twice) but did not continue to run. Someone told me about possible problems with reed valves when a motor has been stored without fogging and that this will prevent starting but I don't even know where to start. My father-in-law isn't much help as he is 75 and always had service done professionally (which is an option but not one I'd like to exercise on a motor which may never run). Any help that I can get as far as what to do next would be appreciated. Also, when I hooked up the new battery, with no lights or accessories on and the key out of the control box there was a spark when I connected the second post. Is this right? With no load I don't think there should be a spark. Please help!

 

[JB]

Re: '74 Evinrude 135HP Outboard not running

Go to Engine FAQs. <br /><br />Wake up a sleeping engine, then, if needed, Outboard wont start.<br /><br />Good luck.

 

[OBJ]

Re: '74 Evinrude 135HP Outboard not running

Welcome gener8r!<br /><br />First thing to do is check the compression and spark. With out either, the engine won't run worth a darn. Generally, compression on each cylinder above 90psi is good....more important is that the cylinders should be with in 10 to 15% of each other psi wise.<br /><br />Spark at each cylinder should jump a 7/16" gap with a strong thick spark.<br /><br />Got good compression and spark, next thing you need to do is overhaul the carbs. Setting that long, I can almost garantee they will have varnish in them. Replacing the fuel lines would be a good move also.<br /><br />Replace the water pump impeller...better yet, get a new water pump kit and replace the whole thing along with the t-stats. Overheat can kill an engine really quick.<br /><br />Finally, if yer still interested in this engine, get a good service manual for the engine. It will pay for itself in no time and save a lot of harsh language that could be used on something else. If you want a generic manual, Clymer or Seloc, look at the bottom of the page. If you would want to spend the extra $ and get a reprint of the original OEM manual, search up Ken Cook Co., marine.com or the outboardwizard. They all sell reprints.<br /><br />And finally finally....yeah...I know this was a lot to throw at ya' all at once....but do understand that the engine has been setting for a long long time. May take some work....but the rewards are worth it.<br /><br />By the by....I'm in Jefferson County, Ohio.

 

[gener8r]

Re: '74 Evinrude 135HP Outboard not running

I appreciate the prompt replies. Just a little more info. I went through some of the checks on the FAQ page and was able to get the motor to start by squirting fuel mixture directly into the carbs. Once the fuel was burnt up (less than 5 secs.) the motor died. I was able to start it repeatedly this way with the same result. Even though I assume the carbs do need rebuilt, would this indicate a bad fuel pump or just the need for carb work or possibly both?

 

[Basscat 1]

Re: '74 Evinrude 135HP Outboard not running

Possibly both, but start with the carbs first.<br />Also, as suggested, check your spark. It probably wouldnt hurt to buy some new plugs.

 

[00000dan]

Re: '74 Evinrude 135HP Outboard not running

dont let your motor run too long without at least changing the water pump. if it hasnt been used for 16 years it is a must if you dont want to ruin your motor. impellars should be changed every 2 years. i dont know about your 135. mine is a 76 135hp and they dont just sell the impellar. you have to buy they entire kit.(which better anyway). <br /><br />hope you get that thing going soon. i was having the same probs with mine and the advise OBJ is giving you is practicly scripture in the boating world.(heeheehee)