outboard sitting since 2009?

[lalnx]

looked at a pontoon that has been shrink wrapped sitting outside since 2009. Would like to buy it, but it is an as is deal,(they don't have the money to get it ready) I would like to at least start it to see that it actually runs. 2004 merc 60hp 4 stroke EFI. I was wondering if I could bring a can of gas with a little seafoam mixed in it, and just remove the fuel line from the tank, stick it in the gas can and try to start it. if it starts run it for 10-15 seconds and shut it down. This would give me piece of mind anyway, then take it, clean the gas tank, replace all fluids and water pump. is there am major problem in doing this that I am over looking?

thanks,
Jon

 

[trendsetter240]

Re: outboard sitting since 2009?

I don't see any problem with that. I'd skip the seafoam though. No need for that.

Also, run the engine for a lot longer than 15 seconds. You want to see the water pump is functioning, that the engine doesn't overheat, the prop turns in gear smoothly, etc.

Also you will want to bring a compression gauge and test the compression. I would never, ever, purchase a motor without testing the compression first.

Cheers

 

[wrench 3]

Re: outboard sitting since 2009?

Also, run the engine for a lot longer than 15 seconds. You want to see the water pump is functioning, that the engine doesn't overheat, the prop turns in gear smoothly, etc.

The way I read lainx's post, he (or she) was not planing to hook up the muffs and water. So lainx, don't run it for more than two seconds without water. They say as little as five seconds can destroy the water pump impeller.
If you can't get water, the best you can do is a compression test. Expect the readings to be a little low after sitting, but make sure they are reasonably even across all cylinders. Then adjust your price to reflect all the things you don't know about.

 

[lalnx]

Re: outboard sitting since 2009?

Yes, I was going to see if it would pop off, and no water source there. I would move it to a water source, but I need to replace the outer bunk rails before trailering. not wanting to do that, then not end up buying it anyway. If it would start, then I could go forward with the bunk repair, pull it to her house, and run it on muffs for a longer time, check shifting etc. If that goes well, pay the lady and head home, replace all fluids, and water pump.

Don't know if I should add any oil in the cylinders or anywhere else prior to starting? or even just turn it over a few times first with plug wire off?

 

[wrench 3]

Re: outboard sitting since 2009?

Before you start it; oil the cylinders, spin it over with the plugs out and the plug wires grounded, then try to start it.

 

[lalnx]

Re: outboard sitting since 2009?

ok, right now then here is my game plan for the outboard. Please comment If there is something else I should give attention to.

1) install new battery, check electrical system and tilt/trim motor, check oil levels/conditions.

2) remove fuel line from tank, insert into fresh can of gas.

3) remove plugs, oil cylinders, ground plugs, turn over a few times to disperse oil.

4) reinstall plugs, try to start, if it starts, shut it back off.

5) If it started, then I will proceed with replacing the bunks, and trailering it to a water source.

6) attach muffs, run motor for a bit check shifting and engine temp.

7) Check compression, if all looks good, buy it, and hop the trailer brakes behave on the way home.

8) Once I get it home, change oil & filter, gear case lube, fresh plugs, a new water pump, wait for ice-out!

 

[trendsetter240]

Re: outboard sitting since 2009?

Looks like a good list to me. I'd check the compression in the first step; might save you a lot of work.

 

[wrench 3]

Re: outboard sitting since 2009?

Just remember to replace the fuel in the on-board fuel tank. It's probably pretty well degraded by now. Also inspect the water pump before ordering parts. You could most likely get by with just a repair kit.

 

[quicktach]

Re: outboard sitting since 2009?

Don't crank it over without water going through the engine. Compression test up front. Fresh gas needed. When you say "they don't have the $$$ to get it ready" ....do they have repair plans ??? Pull the dipstick and look at the engine oil on white toilet paper -> clean , rust stains or coloration ? Check gear case lube (draw a bit off -> any whitish or creme colored emulsion ?