Mercury Classic 50 advice

fishinick

Cadet
Joined
Sep 9, 2011
Messages
21
Hey guys,

I have a few questions regarding my 1988 Mercury Classic 50 45 hp outboard. I just bought a flats boat with intentions to restore it. I am about half way done and I need some info to finish up some of the mechanical issues needing to be fixed. The outboard I have is sitting right now and from what I understand, it should run after I clean the carbs. Heres a list of questions you guys could help me with.

What kind of throttle control do I need that will be compatible with this engine? (my console has a hole cut for a top mount control box)

Can I start the engine without the control box and get it running until I have the control box. If so, how?

Do you think I should have the compression checked before I put it on the water? Or at least bring it to a mechanic to make sure I won't end up getting towed in?

Does anyone know if this particular motor had trim and tilt on it? It appears to have some sort of hydrolic cellinoid but I'm not sure if thats for the trim.

Pics and answers are greatly appreciated.

Thanks so much,

fishinick
 

Faztbullet

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Mar 2, 2008
Messages
15,937
Re: Mercury Classic 50 advice

hat kind of throttle control do I need that will be compatible with this engine? (my console has a hole cut for a top mount control box)
Any top mount binnacle that is for a mercury or uses 33C style cables which will these will require a kit.
Do you think I should have the compression checked before I put it on the water?
This would be my first check before I purchased anything for engine. You can remove sparkplugs and go direct to starter to test compression.
Does anyone know if this particular motor had trim and tilt on it? It appears to have some sort of hydrolic cellinoid but I'm not sure if thats for the trim.
Most of these engines did have trim but it could have be ordered without it. Post a picture of midsection and clamp bracket so we can tell.
Can I start the engine without the control box and get it running until I have the control box. If so, how?
You need a secure engine stand or it mounted on back of boat. Hook up a set of battery cables(not jumper) to the starter solenoid. Hook up a fuel supply(50:1 mix) and a water supply. Pump up fuel to see if carbs flood,if not hook up battery and turn on water. Take a starter button and attach to starter solenoid. Make sure throttle /spark level is at idle postion (against screw stop). Take finger and hold in enrinchner butoon for 5-10 seconds and then crank engine. Speed can be controlled with the throttle lever and to stop engine either disconnect fuel supply or hold in on enrichner (floods and kills it)
 

fishinick

Cadet
Joined
Sep 9, 2011
Messages
21
Re: Mercury Classic 50 advice

Thanks Faztbullet,

I will post a picture once I mount it on a stand. I was thinking of using a modified sawhorse to mount it on.
 
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