Engine noise at idle

[mkimler]

I have an Evinrude 1984 90 HP outboard motor on my boat that is making a squeaking noise at idle. The noise is very similiar to old belts squeaking on a car engine. When I increase the RPM the noise seems to go away. I'm not exactly sure where the noise is coming from, but the source does seem to be between the lower unit and the engine head, about where the water pump would be. Anyone have an idea as to what this problem is? As far as I know, this engine does not have belts..

 

[Joe Reeves]

Re: Engine noise at idle

An old mechanics trick to locating the source of noise is the have a long screwdriver, hold the handle portion against your ear, then move the tip of the blade so that it touches suspected noise producing areas of the engine. The loudest noise being emitted would be the problem area.

Possibly the top driveshaft bearing beneath the water pump has failed.