question about old onboard mercruiser

[sanders5790]

im in the process of buying a 1975-80(im not quite sure of the year on it the lady im buying it from hasnt found the tittle for it.) party barge that has a on board 165 hp inline six cylinder mercruiser. anyway its been sitting for about 4 years, i went to started it with a new battery and fresh gas and all it would do is make a click right when you first try to start it like if the battery was low. what could that be? i was thinking it was a bad starter? could there be other high risks with it sitting so long?

 

[frostywalrus81]

Re: question about old onboard mercruiser

Is it just one click or does it keep clicking. If it's just one click then it could be the starter sylonoid or possibly the starter. I would first start by doing a tune up on it (Cap, rotor, points, condenser, check compression). Good luck and keep us posted.

 

[Alumarine]

Re: question about old onboard mercruiser

Could be as simple as corroded battery cables.

Have you tried turning the engine over by hand?

Oops, forgot to welcome you.

 

[MikDee]

Re: question about old onboard mercruiser

You should take out the spark plugs, and throw some motor oil (any kind, a couple ounces in each) of the cylinders, let it sit awhile to penetrate, then try cranking the motor over with a large breaker bar first, (clockwise I believe), once you break it free, (if you do?) then try to crank it with the key.
Make sure your battery cables are cleaned, & greased first. Your starter, and solenoids may need the connections done like this too, if you get no response.

 

[Showtime22]

Re: question about old onboard mercruiser

Letting a carb sit that long could be bad. Especially if it was stored outdoors and covered poorly.

Make sure the motor doesn't overheat the first time out. The rubber water pump impeller in the out drive may be cracked.

An older boat will keep your hands full.
I would advise a test drive of any boat before buying.