Is it ok to run my 94' evinrude at low rpm's

[brian91z28]

I own a 1994 Lowe sea nymph with a 70hp evinrude. It has a new powerhead in 2001, and the previous owner did not know why. I want to troll with it on lake Michigan, but I am nervous about running at such low rpms, is this bad for the engine? I did make sure that it is not running lean, it runs great otherwise, again just nervous running on the big water.


Brian

 

[HighTrim]

Re: Is it ok to run my 94' evinrude at low rpm's

No problem with that at all.

Things to note though. Be sure your plugs are correct, and are properly gapped. If doing heavy trolling, gap them an additional .005. I would decarb annually, along with adding a fuel additive such as Seafoam to my tanks. Also be sure your t stats are functioning as they should. This will prevent your engine from running cold.

Good luck.

 

[brian91z28]

Re: Is it ok to run my 94' evinrude at low rpm's

Thank you for the reply, I was originally going to use my electric trolling motor, but I now feel comfortable using the regular motor. This site is great!


Brian

 

[Jayboid]

Re: Is it ok to run my 94' evinrude at low rpm's

I use a 9.9 hp kicker motor. The great thing about that is that you can put it on as a permanent install and use it for an emergency engine as well as trolling. I wouldn't want to be out on Lake Michigan in a storm and a conked-out engine with only an electric trolling moter to get me home. Trolling with a kicker motor keeps the hours off you big motor and keeps your spark plugs clean.

 

[Randybeall]

Re: Is it ok to run my 94' evinrude at low rpm's

One of the things we forget is that the prop needs to be correct for the engine even if we are running it slow. Because the engine is fully loaded when the prop is in the water it must be the correct pitch and size. The best way is WOT test. Engine should just reach maximum rpm at WOT and not over rev or be lugged down. This assures the engine is working correctly through out the range.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Is it ok to run my 94' evinrude at low rpm's

i agree on the proper prop, your wide open rpms, should be between 5500-6000 rpms, then the motor works correctly at all speeds.

 

[brian91z28]

Re: Is it ok to run my 94' evinrude at low rpm's

Prop is original, and it does run approx 5600-5800 rpms when WOT, I did take the other guys advice, and I found a 2.7hp cruise and carry cheap. Its only 12lbs, I think it will work great!

 

[Randybeall]

Re: Is it ok to run my 94' evinrude at low rpm's

Cool, thanks for the update. Some people don't care to give the feedback and let everyone know they appreciate the opinions.