4 hp Evinrude

S

sharkman

Seaman
Joined
Feb 23, 2005
Messages
55
Hello - Over the weekend I bought a 4 hp evinrude that I was told ran fine up until a few years ago. Then it was stored and not used since. S/N 4206 S (1972?). Anyway, I happened to be speaking with another person who also saw this motor and wanted to buy it, and he was told by the seller that it ran but would always cut out after running for a few minutes. Little different story

I tried starting it once I got back to the camp but to no avail. I could crank it but it would not start. I sprayed a but of pre-mix in carb, afterwards put a bit direct in cylinders but nothing. Took the carb off and cleaned it (as of today am waiting for the carb kit to arrive in mail) and still nothing. Spark seems good in both cylinders but how can i really be sure?

thanks
 
X

Xcusme

Commander
Joined
Apr 21, 2003
Messages
2,888
Re: 4 hp Evinrude

Yup, that's a 1972 , to be sure. Spark should jump 3/8 inch to ground on both plug leads. If you have weak spark, pull the flywheel with a harmonic balancer type puller and inspect the coils, points and condensers. Check the point gap (.020) on both sets of points. Spraying a bit a premix into the carb throat should have produced a short run. At this point , do a compression check. Be sure to replace the water pump impeller before you get her going. Be sure to submurge the lower unit up past the water pump ,if running in a barrel.
 
S

sharkman

Seaman
Joined
Feb 23, 2005
Messages
55
Re: 4 hp Evinrude

Thanks X....again. You have helped a few times in the past and its always appreciated. Quick question, when I am doing my spark check, do I need to have the motor in the water as I am just pulling the starter a few times. I have done it this way before but was never sure. Maybe it should always be tested in the drink?
 
X

Xcusme

Commander
Joined
Apr 21, 2003
Messages
2,888
Re: 4 hp Evinrude

No need to drop in a tank for a few pulls. Just don't run it out of water...period. By all means, replace the water pump. Those motors are very dependable , but maintenance is a must. On a new to me motor, I'll inspect all parts of the motor. Change lower unit lube, rebuild carb, check fuel pump operation, pull flywheel and inspect coils, wires etc, set point gaps, and do a compression test. I keep good records for all work done and refer back later to check for lengths of service for water pump impellers etc. I don't like surprises out on the lake , and hate rowing.
 
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