Re: 1973 Evinrude Starflite won't start
Magic.... Due to sitting for a year, the carburetors will require removing, cleaning, and rebuilding as they are no doubt clogged and fouled. Be sure not to overlook the four (4) brass fixed high speed jets that are located in the center bottom portion of the float chambers (2 to a carb).<br /><br />However, that would have nothing to do with the previous owners failure of the engine if it indeed quit running while underway.<br /><br />Note.... The spark plugs should be either Champion QL77JC4 or L77JC4 s/plugs, gapped at .040 . The "Q" indicates a resistor plug to help quiet noise/interference in any electronic equipment you might have.<br /><br />First, check the compression, should be in the range of 100+ psi and even on all cylinders.<br /><br />Second, with the s/plugs removed, check the spark. The spark should jump a 7/16" gap on all cylinders with a strong blue flame. If no spark, remove the black wire that has a yellow stripe from the powerpack, then try the spark check again.<br /><br />If you now have spark, replace the ignition switch. If still no spark, replace the powerpack.<br /><br />Let us know what you find and we'll continue on if needed.
