20 merc been in storage-no fire

Cmackr56

Cadet
Joined
Aug 9, 2003
Messages
8
I've got a 78 model 20hp merc that's been in storage the past 6 years. Running great when stored. Put it on the stand today and no fire whatsoever. Any ideas? What do I check and how? Any help would be much appreciated...Cmack :confused:
 
Joined
Aug 2, 2003
Messages
27
Re: 20 merc been in storage-no fire

Cmack, for starters, don't start the motor again until you do some basic maintenance, i.e. change the lower unit gear lube and check it for water (milky appearance), shavings (check bottom plug if magnetic for metal shavings, run some between you fingers and feel for grittiness) and note the color/smell/quantity. If your lower unit has no/poor lube, the next time you start it could be very expensive! Fill from the bottom to expel air pockets. Be sure gas mixture is good (50:1) so hopefully nothing will seize due to lean condition, and be sure it is fresh mix (some say two weeks is sour). Put in new plugs, and check your battery voltage, then check all connections starting at the battery looking for loose, corrosion, and moisture. Then get a cup of coffee and do a search: "no spark" When you are done with these things, post back your findings, and then I'm sure one of the pros will help you diagnose further. :)
 

Cmackr56

Cadet
Joined
Aug 9, 2003
Messages
8
Re: 20 merc been in storage-no fire

Ok, I checked everything I knew to check,the lower unit was fine as I had replaced it prior to storing the motor and had never put it in the water. The engine is manual start so there's no battery to check. Where do I start now? <br /><br />Thanks Cmack
 
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