Advice for a novice engine owner?73' 50 HP Johson won't start..

[goldenboy]

Hi All,<br /><br />Was handed down a boat that worked 1 month ago. Don't know a thing about boat engines.<br /><br />Can someone <br /><br />1) suggest a good repair manual that does not expect you to be an engine guru? I will order it offline if so.. <br /><br />Or<br /><br />2) Tell me what part to replace on my engine. I hear something spinning underneath the engine cover, but nothing is firing off. I know the spark plugs are new from the previous owner, so what else is involved with firing off an engine?

 

[BayStLouis]

Re: Advice for a novice engine owner?73' 50 HP Johson won't start..

Try searching for "service manual" on this forum - I'm sure you'll find several threads full of information.<br /><br />Basically, you're either getting no fuel or you're getting no spark to fire the fuel mixture. Remove each spark plug wire and position it near the tip of the plug, then watch while cranking. You should see a spark jump to the plug.<br /><br />If you don't see any spark, the ignition coils may be bad - or you may need either points and condensor or electronic ignition "power pack", depending on which a 50 hp Johnson uses.<br /><br />If you *do* see a spark - at each plug - try squirting a bit of aerosol carburetor cleaner into the carburetor, then crank the motor. If it sputters, the ignition is okay and you need to look at the carburetor and fuel pump.<br /><br />Seach eBay for "Evinrude" - there are often service and parts manuals available there for good prices. I suppose that Evinrude is a more unique name for accurate searching, even though OMC engines are all alike under the paint. <br /><br />Hope this helps.

 

[norman158]

Re: Advice for a novice engine owner?73' 50 HP Johson won't start..

somthing spinning? is engine turning over or is just the starter running? charge the battery and lube the starter drive if its not poping up into the flywheel

 

[Liam]

Re: Advice for a novice engine owner?73' 50 HP Johson won't start..

Sounds like the starter is spinning without engaging the motor. Try as Norman158 suggested and lube the shaft on the starter and try again. If you take the cover off the motor and try start it you should see the flywheel spinning. Secondly, do not spray carb cleaner into the carb to try get it started. This contains no lubricants and can cause damage to a 2 stroke engine. Spray in WD40 instead.<br /><br />Liam

 

[Fouled Plug]

Re: Advice for a novice engine owner?73' 50 HP Johson won't start..

That was my thought also, the starter drive. If you look at the top of the starter motor, you will see a toothed gear that is supposed to pop up and engage the flywheel when you hit the key. A blast of penetrating oil and a ~light~ tap with a hammer to the gear should restore it's movement. Rmember to use fresh fuel/oil (50:1 ratio) when trying to start. You may want to drop the carb bowls to check for gunk left by old fuel evaporating. Some people prefer Clymer manuals, others Seloc. Maybe pick up both to cover all the gaps. Good luck!