Elgin starter engagement

[Doug N.]

Is there a way to convert an elgin recoil starter so that you don't have to hold down the button on top to engage the pull start dogs?

 

[steelespike]

Re: Elgin starter engagement

Never saw one.Do you have a model number.Sears were built by a number of builders. My guess is that you would probably have to change the whole assembly because the pawls may not release correctly if you fiddle with them.
If well tuned the motor should start with a few pulls.I supose you could duct tape the button down and release it quickly when it starts.Leave a loose end for quick removal.I would think with the button the recoil would have less abuse.

 

[Doug N.]

Re: Elgin starter engagement

The model # looks like 571-58551
Serial 551-2320

This motor was given to my father in law and hasn't been run in years. We will skip the duct tape, I thought if there was a good kit we could install it. He is 88 yrs old and it isn't all that easy for him.

It looks almost like brand new. We got it running today for awhile. I think what it neeeds to to get some "time on the pond" to let it run. We had it in a barrel and had to keep the speed down, so it wasn't easy to keep going.

Thanks much for the response.

 

[steelespike]

Re: Elgin starter engagement

Add a good dose of seafoam to the gas it may help clean out the system.Not likely.
Typically when they have sat around for years they will start and run but gradually get worse and worse.We are presently nursing a 88 50 Evinrude for now it seems to be responding we'll see if it continues.

 

[F_R]

Re: Elgin starter engagement

It MIGHT be possible to replace that button type starter with a newer style one, but I don't know that to be a fact. They are a real pain, aren't they?

 

[dwco5051]

Re: Elgin starter engagement

The button should not be taped down. I have one of these motors, a 3 1/2 hp from the late 40's. These starting mechanisms do not have pawls that are engaged by centrifugal force but the starter engages when the button is pushed down. Leaving the button pressed down after the motor starts will cause damage. Having a lot of calluses on the heel of your hand is a great help if you have one of these motors that does no start on the first or second pull

I am curious, is the motor a crappy green color?

 

[dwco5051]

Re: Elgin starter engagement

Just for your information that model number is for a 1950 5 horsepower Elgin. In 1951 they converted to a rewind start that did not have the button that had to be held down.

For more info on these old Elgins try the following link'

http://www.yankeeaomci.org/feature_outboard-2.htm

 

[Doug N.]

Re: Elgin starter engagement

Yup. Crappy green, but it is in great shape. The guy that had it before was a fussy airplane mechanic who liked everything perfect.

I guess we'll live with the push button egagement.

Thanks for the help.
D