'85 Force 50 Engine Cover?

[Brian_in_Waterford]

Maybe this is the most lame question ever, but I recently inherited a Bayliner with an '85 Force 50 outboard. The engine cover seems to be stuck and won't open. Any suggestions?

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: '85 Force 50 Engine Cover?

Some can be very tight on the rubber gasket. after releasing the latch, a couple of good hard upward thumps on the rear should do it. Getting it back on won't be easy either. If it was stuck from hardened, aged oil deposits, then clean the rubber with a non toxic solvent like xylene or maybe Goo-Gone.

 

[Brian_in_Waterford]

Re: '85 Force 50 Engine Cover?

I wasn't aware there WAS a latch - might be my problem huh? I thought the cover just unsnapped somehow.

I looked all over the motor and didn't see an obvious latch release. Any hints where I might find it? :redface:

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: '85 Force 50 Engine Cover?

Not too familiar with thart exact engine but look under the snout where the steering connects for a lever to rotate. If there were on on the back, you would see it. So if the latch is in the front, then you lift the front and slide the cover slightly backward to release the bent metal catch riveted to the cover from the back slotted plate. It will make sense when you see it.

 

[tracster]

Re: '85 Force 50 Engine Cover?

on the back! It kind of blends in with the trim

 

[Brian_in_Waterford]

Re: '85 Force 50 Engine Cover?

A-ha. Found the little lever to release the latch tucked under the snout near the steering cables, just as Frank and tracster described. Cover opened no problem. Thanks guys!