Older motors just got...proper things to do?

[JSGOLD]

We just bought our first boat, a 1976 Starcraft with a (76)55HP Evinrude and we added a (61) Evinrude 5.5 Fisherman kicker motor last week. Since I am not familiar with these motors as to the maintenace of them in the past I would ask how far should I go this winter as far as trying to make them dependable? I know they run but they both have not been run regulary the last 2 years. I was thinking that the basic things, lower unit oil change, tune up, maybe a carb cleaning or maybe even rebuilds would be in order, but would I be overdoing it by tearing them further down to check water pump, gears etc., maybe replacing seals and gaskets and such or is better to not to mess with it too much. I believe in proper care but the old saying "don't fix it if ain't broke" keeps coming to mind....I see no evidence of water leaking into the lower units. Maybe replacing coils along with carb rebuilds, points, plugs and oil change? I have worked on small engines a lot but new to boat motors....

 

[david_r]

Re: Older motors just got...proper things to do?

here are some good places to start looking

this one will get you started http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=158086 you may not have to do everything since it hasnt been used regularly.... but you will get the idea when you start reading

and this one will answer a lot more http://forums.iboats.com/forumdisplay.php?f=31

also i want to add if you do not have a water/fuel separator you need to get one........ trust me it will save a lot of headaches.

if you need any help wiring i also have multiple links for that also..... i have yet to have bought a boat that didnt need wiring done on it...... i like for everything to be perfect before i go out, but still have probs every now and again lol

 

[JSGOLD]

Re: Older motors just got...proper things to do?

Thanks! I have manuals and parts books on the way....was not familiar with the separator you mentioned so will check that out. I plan to tune them, replace fuel lines, and change oil....was trying to figure if I should go ahead and get lower unit gaskets /seals and impellers but maybe I don't need to reip those things apart...Trying to make these as dependable as possible. I might go ahead and replace coils too, while I am at it and rebuild carbs. The bigger motor is a bit imposing, since I habe never worked on boat motors...

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Older motors just got...proper things to do?

read this >>>> http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=299680