Re: [OMC-Boats] 1969 Evinrude Sportsman

There's a simple theory to apply here: if it ain't broken, don't fix it. Before I did anything like pulling the engine, I'd pull all the spark plugs, spray a generous amount of good penetrating oil into each cylinder, give it a few days to soak in, then try turning it over (fuel off and plugs out). If it turns over easy (beware to lay a rag over the plug wholes else you'll spray oil all over), I'd put the plugs back in, drain the fuel, put some fresh fuel in, make sure its feeding into the carb, then try starting it. With any luck the engine won't be seized, the fuel system won't be varnished, the electrical system and everything else will still be in functional order and she'll start purring like a kitten!

Once you get the engine running, be sure to make sure you have water flowing through the cooling system as lots of bad things can happen to coolant ports when sitting that long (mouse nests, wasp nests, etc.).

  ----- Original Message -----
  From: J.F. Tucker
  To: 'Evinrude & Johnson Boats of the 1960's and 70's'
  Sent: Friday, May 08, 2009 7:06 PM
  Subject: [OMC-Boats] 1969 Evinrude Sportsman

  05/06/09

  Help please?

  I have been following along with many of your comments, and you seem to be quite familiar with Evinrude boats and OMC. Last summer I purchased a beautiful 1969 Evinrude Sportsman with the OMC split-fire V6 (in my earlier years I had two of these fabulous boats: 1966 120 hp Chevy II engine and a 1967 with the Buick V6).

  My recent purchase has been in indoor storage for the last 17 years. Appearance wise, it is close to new. Before taking delivery, I had the outdrive completely gone through with new parts and seals by a professional, but thus far, I have done nothing to the engine. The marine mechanic who did the outdrive indicated he believes the boat engine is low hours, although one cylinder had low compression (probably due to sitting). His recommendation is to clean the gas tank, install a fuel filter, have the carburetor rebuilt, change the oil, install new spark plugs + new battery, and fire it up and see how she does.

  My dilemma is I do not have any appreciation for being left "high and dry" when something mechanical has problems: especially engines in boats, cars, and airplanes. It is now getting to be boating season, and I want to get her into the water.

  One of my thoughts was to simply pull this engine out and replace it with a newer V6 marine engine, but I want to make sure that I select the correct engine..one that is complete and will bolt right in without any modifications or complications. Thus far, I have not been able to locate any information regarding anyone who has taken on a similar project.

  Based on your obvious wisdom in this theater, I am hoping you can shed some light on the subject.

  J.F. Tucker

  Jtuck45@...

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Received on Friday, 8 May 2009