Evinrude ticking

[icedimensions]

Just revived a 1978 Evinrude 150 V6 with minimal effort. She's a little testy getting cold started, but spins like a top once running.
My question is, should I be hearing ticking from the top of the crankcase, like valves ticking? Being unfamiliar with these old motors, I am not sure if that is normal or not. I realize there might be a little rattle so I didn't want to get my alarm status activated. Mixed no ethanol high octane fuel 50:1.

It is not really loud, just noticible with the cowling off.
I really don't want to break into the engine if I don't have to.

Thanks for any feedback!

 

[sutor623]

Re: Evinrude ticking

I am pretty sure that is normal. Every 2 stroke evinrude that I have had from that era had a beautiful ticking sound. Check compression and then go to town!

 

[boobie]

Re: Evinrude ticking

You could be developing some piston slap which a lot of those cross flows do.

 

[sutor623]

Re: Evinrude ticking

You could be developing some piston slap which a lot of those cross flows do.

What would be another indicator to nail that diagnosis down? And what are the negatives of piston slap?

OP, does the motor do it when it's cold, warm or both?

 

[icedimensions]

Re: Evinrude ticking

Thanks for the vote of confidence. It never really noticably changed tune cold or warm. Was just a soft, but evident sound.
Glad to know its not a death warrant! At least not yet anyway.
I am just so used to engine internal components being constantly bathed in lubrication. These two stroke motors kind of freak me out and make me paranoid something is wrong internally.

But, there's something to be said about a 35 year old motor that still runs like a beast!

 

[metriccrescentwrench]

Re: Evinrude ticking

But, there's something to be said about a 35 year old motor that still runs like a beast!

Yep, they can last a long time if properly maintained. I've had a boat with an '81 Johnson 90 for around 7 years now and that engine makes the exact same noise you're describing.

 

[sutor623]

Re: Evinrude ticking

Yep, they can last a long time if properly maintained. I've had a boat with an '81 Johnson 90 for around 7 years now and that engine makes the exact same noise you're describing.

Yup, seems to be the trend with these John-Rudies! I love that ticking sound.

OP don't be afraid of these motors. Keep oil in the gas, fresh waterpumps and the carbs clean and they will keep on ticking, literally :lol:

 

[rothfm]

Re: Evinrude ticking

Ahhh that sound...Very distinctive to these motors. If its not excessive and sounds smooth--Agreed, normal. Really like that sound when they are idling good. Nothing like it!

 

[icedimensions]

Re: Evinrude ticking

Thanks all for the positive responses! Yes the motor sounds wonderful on land. Can't wait to get her out on the water!