Flywheel won't budge

[HeidiH2ho]

About a month ago my boat was filled with saltwater overnight. The 89 80 hp Mercury outboard was not submerged however. After bailing the boat out, I tried to start the engine. It would start but would not keep running. I figured it got water in the gas. Upon trying again with fresh gasoline the motor would not even try to turn over. All I get is the starter engaging and a low whining sound. The flywheel will not budge. What is my first move?

 

[Reel Precision]

Re: Flywheel won't budge

If there was salt water in your gas there was salt water all over crank, pistons bearings etc.

 

[Winger Ed.]

Re: Flywheel won't budge

Take the plugs out, spray oil into the cylinders, try to rotate the flywheel with a wrench.<br /><br />If that doesn't limber it back up; the rings, bores, crank bearings, etc. maybe be seized beyond hope. <br /><br />If you can get it to turn, spray plenty of oil into the cylinders and rotate it a few dozen times. Drain the carbs at the bottom of the bowl, the float bowl plug- whichever it has. Put fresh gas in it, a good battery and go from there.

 

[Clams Canino]

Re: Flywheel won't budge

Unfortunately getting it running has to be done ASAP or bad things happen. You should have disconnected the gas line ASAP and run it on a fresh little 6 gallon can. Unless you get lucky with the above instructions, it may be porked.<br /><br />-W