1957 3HP Evinrude Light Twin Problem

[Sal V]

Hello All:<br /><br />I have a 1957 3HP Evinrude Light Twin that I’m trying to get running. I posted a message on this awhile back (Old Evinrude Questions, Feb 13th, 2002) and got some good feedback. Here’s what I’ve done so far: Took the flywheel off and set the points to a gap of .020”. The points looked fine and had been recently replaced. The plugs looked OK too, but I didn’t know if there was a special setting for them? I also replaced the old fuel with fresh fuel… I used the factory recommended mix of 1/3 pint oil per gallon of gasoline.<br /><br />The problem: For the three times I’ve tried to work on it, the following symptom occurs. The engine starts on the first pull and chugs along with the choke all the way pulled out (choked), it seems to stay chugging in this state indefinitely without misfiring. However, when I try to push the choke button down and open up the smaller (low speed) of the two air-gas knobs the engine stalls out and will not restart, without sitting for literally hours/days. We tried just about every different choke setting, small (low speed) air-gas mix knob, and big (high speed) air-gas mix knob that we could and couldn’t get her going again. <br /><br />It is just frustrating that I know now the engine physically runs, but can’t get it to stay going. Could this be some sort of seal or rubber stopper internal to the carb or a cylinder that isn’t doing its job? I’m a novice with working on engines, so I may take it to the local marina if there isn’t a magical solution you guys may know of with those two richness knobs and choke. <br /><br />Thanks in advance!<br /><br />Sal

 

[Allan19603hp]

Re: 1957 3HP Evinrude Light Twin Problem

Good Afternoon, <br /> Have you rebuilt the carb what i mean is replaced all the packing behind the low and high speed needles? Have you cleaned the carb with some good carb cleaner off the motor, sounds to me like there is a restriction in it.. Could be varnish or dirt. Doesnt sound like anything major to me really. When you pulled the flywheel were the coils cracked or looked old? I know you say this is starting right away and these motors usually start on the first or second pull. GREAT old Motors.. I can go further into detail via e-mail... I am at work right now but feel free to e-mail me anytime my address is gra6961@usa.net

 

[Sal V]

Re: 1957 3HP Evinrude Light Twin Problem

In response to your reply Allan:<br /><br />I haven't messed with the carb yet, but that seems like the next logical step. I hope you are right about it just being a bit clogged. The coils looked fine when we checked the points out. You are right about these old Evinrudes, built to last! I appreciate the e-mail address, I'll keep it handy, and get back to you if more questions come up.<br /><br />Thanks again,<br /><br />Sal

 

[dragonslayer]

Re: 1957 3HP Evinrude Light Twin Problem

Hi Sal<br /><br />The old 3hp is a great old engine.<br /><br />You didn't mention how for you have the two needle valves open. Start out with the high speed needle (the bottom one) at about a half turn open. Set the low speed (the top one) at about 3/4 turn open. When you turn the needles in be gentle as you bottom them out so you don't break the tips off.<br /><br />Also take a look through the front of the carb while you have the gas valve open. If you see fuel leaking into the carb throat while the motor is not running your fuel inlet needle is stuck open inside the carb.<br /><br />The oil mix you are running is rich for todays oils. The 3hp will work great on a 50:1 mix with a good quality outboard lubricant. Mix 1/2 pint to 3 gallons of fuel.

 

[DJ]

Re: 1957 3HP Evinrude Light Twin Problem

Sal,<br /><br />My old Lightwin would do the same thing. You have to go into the carb. The needle and seat is not working properly. Also, put a new float in it. The old cork floats would sometimes degrade with todays new fuels.