merc 500 1971 or 67

[kssmallies]

Hi I have a 67 or 71 500 also I don't know yet which year. I dont' know much about the motor but im trying to stuff everything in because its too much money to have them looked at. Anyways bought the boat 2 weeks ago took it to lake to see if it even float and the motor started right up but would only go about 5 mph when I throttled down the motor would rev way up but would not go anyfaster so I left it idiling while I checked to see if the trolling motor worked and when I went to take of again I idiled way up and throttled down and the whole motor started to shake and the boat barely moved and then died. I could smell gas real bad I tried to start several times and then boom. Blew the whole top cowling cover off the motor I think I flooded the carb because gas was pouring from them and with all the wires showing I must have made a spark when trying to start. Anyways took it back home and waited 2 days and took it back out and she runs fine without the cover on? The boat still wont' go over 5 mph though I think I spun the hub or do you think I should check anything else. Also what is the easiest way to clean the carbs just pour some carb cleaner in with the gas? THanks

 

[Plainsman]

Re: merc 500 1971 or 67

COuld be a spun hub. Take a perm marker and make a line on the prop to the LU and take it out. If the lines don't match up when you get it out of the water, spun hub.

If your going to clean the carbs, first get the year of the motor using the serial # and get a complete rebuild kit and remove them and soak in carb cleaner, blow out with air and use the rebuild kit.

Does it have a good pee stream? I'd also replace the impeller even if it does pee good, if for no other reason, peace of mind.