Knocking Crickets...

[timmyjane]

1987 Evinrude 88 SPL
Past Saltwater Boat
New Plugs
Fresh Fuel
Starts well

The boat hasnt been run in a while and we put in on the water yesterday for the first time since last year.

While riding yesterday I head a noise that sounded like loud knocking crickets. The noise was only apparent after a certain RPM, don't know what it is as I dont have a tach. It gets louder and faster in a direct relationship with RPM and speed.

After I got home I realized that I should have revved the engine in neutral to eliminate the lower unit but I didn't. I will try that tomorrow.

Anyone have an idea of what I should be looking at to try and find this noise. I certainly don't want to break anything.

Thanks a lot.

 

[GatorMike]

Re: Knocking Crickets...

I'm glad I have terrible hearing, so I don't hear all these noises that drive people crazy.

 

[jonesg]

Re: Knocking Crickets...

Change the gear oil lately?

 

[timmyjane]

Re: Knocking Crickets...

I was having trouble getting the screws out to change the gear oil. I went to lowes this morning and bought a new flathead and with a little force, lube and heat I was able to finally get them out. Bad news...the oil was like...super light frothy chocolate milk. I suppose I will look up how to change the seals. Anyone know right off?

 

[Daviet]

Re: Knocking Crickets...

You might want to invest in an OEM manual for your engine, it will ansewer all your questions and help you make the necessary repairs.

 

[timmyjane]

Re: Knocking Crickets...

So if this ever comes up for anyone else the noise turned out to be the lower main bearing. Luckily we cought this in time before it went out and shot bearings through the block. The way it was diagnosed was movement in the flywheel. The flywheel could be lifted up slightly and also had a little left to right movement. It was a $600 repair including 2 new thermostats and a new seal around the shift rod. The seal was obviously what caused the chocolate milk. As much as I like working on my own equipment sometimes its worth hiring a professional.

 

[IH8JEEP]

Re: Knocking Crickets...

I pmed you. I had a noise kinda like your decribing. I also posted on here I thought it might have been engine detonation from bad/cheap gas. So if I have a 1994 88 spl I can go take off my cover stand over my motor lift flywheel with hands and turn L&R. There should be no movement. If there is movement call shop. Is that about right.
Thanks