I think its a 1969 ?

[rusty1969]

I just purchased a boat and motor, hoping someone could confirm the year of the motor. Model # 40973R Serial E04814 Evinrude "Lark"<br /><br />Thanks!

 

[CATransplant]

Re: I think its a 1969 ?

Yup, that's a 1969 40hp Evinrude. A Big Twin, one of the favorite outboards around here. Lots of Big Twin owners on this forum, and lots of help if you're having problems with it.<br /><br />I have a 1958 RDS-20 35hp Johnson. Pretty much the same engine. They made this engine for many years. Parts are relatively available, particularly the commonly-needed ones.<br /><br />Yours is an electric shift model, and that's the only source of worry. If it's not working properly, it can be rather expensive to repair.<br /><br />Some info:<br /><br />Point gap: .020"<br />Spark plug gap: .030<br />Plug type: Champion J4C<br />Fuel:Oil ratio: 50:1<br />Lower unit oil type: BRP Premium Blend. This is important! This lower unit requires a different oil than most outboards. Get it from a Johnnyrude dealer.<br /><br />If you don't know the service history of this outboard, you'll want to replace the water pump impeller, at the very minimum, before putting it into service.<br /><br />If you're going to work on it yourself, you'll need an OEM service manual for it.

 

[rusty1969]

Re: I think its a 1969 ?

Thanks! The electric shift semms to be operating, yeah! I want to change all the oils, and due a basic service that is required by a motor that has sat for a year before I really run it on the water.

 

[CATransplant]

Re: I think its a 1969 ?

Good idea. Also, dump any old fuel, clean the tank and start with fresh fuel. I like to add about half a can of Sea Foam to the first 6 gal. tank on engines that haven't been used for a while.<br /><br />Good deal on the electric shift. Keep that oil clean an fresh in the gearcase, and check it from time to time for water intrusion. If you get any water in the gearcase, replace the seals right away. The parts for the electric shift, like the coils, are very expensive. When they're working, those elecric shift gear boxes are really nice. When they're not, they're a real PITA.<br /><br />Depending on how long this has been sitting, you may not have to do anything to the carbs. I'd try it first.<br /><br />Check the compression on the cylinders. They should be about the same and over 80 psi. I know that sounds low, but those 40hp motors will run fine with that low a compression.<br /><br />Check the spark on both cylinders. It should make a nice spark over at least a 1/4" gap.

 

[rusty1969]

Re: I think its a 1969 ?

THANK YOU!