Beginner - Engine won't start

[Acipenser]

I bought a boat from my father becuase he was not using it and it was just going to waste. Anyway it has a Envinrude 1986 140hp outboard (Model # E 140T2CD) that wont start. He had the engine rebuilt (2 cylinders at least) a while ago, but the engine has not really been used since. I got a new battery for it and tried to start it but no luck.<br /><br />I am a complete beginner to engine repair, but am willing and want to try. I bought the repair manual from Seloc, but does anyone know of any books like "Outboard Motor Repair for Dummies". The Selco repair manual basically start with tuning the engine. I think I need some more background information first. Any ideas?

 

[ICEMAN]

Re: Beginner - Engine won't start

Does the motor crank over and not run or does it not crank over? Is there a button on the control box or dash panel where the clip and lanyard must be installed for the motor to start? When you crank it over, are you pushing the key in to choke it? try these first, and let us know

 

[almost retired again]

Re: Beginner - Engine won't start

Hi Acipenser,<br />The best book to buy is a repair manual from the Mfg. Most of the time you can pick up one from a dealer, ( he will probly have to order it).<br />1. Check compression (should vary no more than 15# between cylinders)<br />2. Check for spark (each cylinder should jump a 7/16" gap)<br />3. Is the engine getting fuel? If the first two check out, try squirting a fuel/oil mixture directly into the throat of the carbs. Crank it over and it should start. Oh yea make sure that the fuel primer bulb is squeezed up hard.<br />Good Luck

 

[Acipenser]

Re: Beginner - Engine won't start

ICEMAN -

Does the motor crank over and not run or does it not crank over? Is there a button on the control box or dash panel where the clip and lanyard must be installed for the motor to start? When you crank it over, are you pushing the key in to choke it? try these first, and let us know

The motor cranks but does not start. The clip and lanyard are installed. I did try to use the choke, but still would not start.

 

[Joe Reeves]

Re: Beginner - Engine won't start

Acipenser.... I assume that your father has instructed you in the proper method of starting the engine?<br /><br />If not... Prime the fuel primer bulb until it is hard, Give the engine throttle without putting it into gear, push the ignition key in to activate the fuel primer solenoid (think of it as a choke) and hold it in, Crank the engine while still pressing the key in. When the engine starts, release the inward pressure on the key and lower the throttle to a comfortable rpm. You may need to tap (press) the key in a few times to keep the engine running until it warms up slightly.<br /><br />Checks to do: Check the compression, should be 100+ psi and even on all cylinders. With the s/plugs removed and the ignition key in the on position, check the spark, should jump a 7/16" gap on all cylinders with a strong blue flame.<br /><br />If the compression and spark checks out okay and you're attempting to start the engine as mentioned above... and it still will not start, I would surmise that the carburetors are clogged/fouled/gummed up. In which case, the cure would be to remove, clean, and rebuild them. Keep us informed.

 

[cammydog]

Re: Beginner - Engine won't start

Asipenser, make sure you are using good clean, fresh gas. Do as the others say, they know what they are talking about. Good luck!!

 

[mellowyellow]

Re: Beginner - Engine won't start

I'll add one more thing to the good advice here:<br />make sure you have a fully charged battery. a<br />battery with a low charge will supply enough juice<br />to turn the starter motor, but not enough to fire<br />her up.<br />good luck,<br />M.Y.