Beware!!! Dirt Dobbers = Rebuild

commonarcwelder

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Oct 8, 2007
Messages
103
Run into something for the second time this year guys. Dirt dobbers nesting in the cowling cover of a nice 2 - 3 year old outboard. The first motor was an Evinrude 150. Most recent was my father in law's 125 Merc.... They nest in there and as you run they loosen up and fall and rattle around creating dust that is being sucked right on through your motor eating the pistons, rings, and cylinders. First noticeable thing that happens is it will not idle or idles real rough and a hard too start condition. Might want to check under your cowlings for peace of mind.
 

tashasdaddy

Honorary Moderator Emeritus
Joined
Nov 11, 2005
Messages
51,019
Re: Beware!!! Dirt Dobbers = Rebuild

they also like the tale tell outlet.
 

tmcalavy

Rear Admiral
Joined
Aug 29, 2001
Messages
4,005
Re: Beware!!! Dirt Dobbers = Rebuild

Bag it before you store it for the winter.
 

Texasmark

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Dec 20, 2005
Messages
14,778
Re: Beware!!! Dirt Dobbers = Rebuild

I too have terrible dd problems, living in the country. I bag my engine in the summer, between fishing trips.....caught them in there this year. Check it befor I go out.

Their cousins also like the exit hole for the bilge pump on the boat.

Mark
 

zzzzz

Lieutenant Junior Grade
Joined
Jan 13, 2003
Messages
1,094
Re: Beware!!! Dirt Dobbers = Rebuild

we have a customer with a 30 Honda...they built a big nest on the cam pulley-he didn't make it 50 yards up the canal when motor jumped time...bent ALL the valves !! :cool:
 

commonarcwelder

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Oct 8, 2007
Messages
103
Re: Beware!!! Dirt Dobbers = Rebuild

The Evinrude was so bad I ended up replacing pistons and rings. ( It had below 80PSI on all six) The Mercury not so bad; Think I caught it in time, with right at 105PSI in all holes. Put some Marvel Mystery Oil in the gas and in the cylinders after cleaning it all up. Gonna take it out today and do some Speckled Trout fishing!
 
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