Normal idle speed for a 1970 115hp Evinrude?

witenite0560

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I can't seem to find any info in the manual I have or on here in regards to what "normal idle speed" is. Can anyone help? Thanks

Also, on a related note, I've noticed while trying to find this info, several folks noted that the idle speed is different depending on whether you're in the water or using muffs. Is this just because of less exhaust back pressure on muffs? Just curious.
 

bigpoppakdog

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Jul 9, 2008
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Re: Normal idle speed for a 1970 115hp Evinrude?

I adjust my idle at the boat ramp. I back it down and lower the motor. This way I can engage it in gear to test under load and adjust the idle screws and not have to have to have someone else driving. I have the same motor and threw out that ridiculous linkage and replaced those inner rings(can't think of correct term off-hand) with new ones that hold the idle screws in place. 1 1/2 turns out is the guideline, which was the best for mine.

**be sure you have your transom tie downs attached so your boat doesn't fly off your trailer and into your vehicle :)
 

witenite0560

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Re: Normal idle speed for a 1970 115hp Evinrude?

What is the normal rpm, warmed up, at idle?
 

witenite0560

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Re: Normal idle speed for a 1970 115hp Evinrude?

Thanks, that was about what I was guessing. I'm surprised the manual doesn't list it.
 

bigpoppakdog

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Re: Normal idle speed for a 1970 115hp Evinrude?

I found that idle/neutral wasn't the tricky part with setting mine. The tricky part was idle speed in forward. I could have it set to where it idled great in neutral, but as soon as it was put in gear, it ran very rough until I brought up the acceleration a bit. Probably more of a test and feel thing versus so much on relying on what the tach said. That's why I would suggest making sure it not only idles fine in neutral, but also when you put it in gear. Which is why I suggest doing it while your boat is still secured to the trailer. Just my two cents.

And whatever you do, don't try to set it with muffs on in your driveway. It will stall once you put it in the water.
 

witenite0560

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Re: Normal idle speed for a 1970 115hp Evinrude?

Yeah, I figure it'll reduce some in the water. That's why I've got a toolbag in the boat though and I set it a bit high on the muffs. Hopefully, that will compensate. Thanks for the help I appreciate the insight and advice.
 

Boss Hawg

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Re: Normal idle speed for a 1970 115hp Evinrude?

Yeah, I figure it'll reduce some in the water. That's why I've got a toolbag in the boat though and I set it a bit high on the muffs. Hopefully, that will compensate. Thanks for the help I appreciate the insight and advice.

I set my 1987 70hp @ 1000 on muffs-
It idles at about 800 in the water :)
Be a good place to start at first i think-
Luck to you :cool:
 

witenite0560

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Re: Normal idle speed for a 1970 115hp Evinrude?

Believe it or not, just in case you might be curious, I did find it in the manual. "Adjust idle adjustment screw so motor will idle at 600 - 650 rpm IN GEAR."
 
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