Loud engine?

[pnwguy]

1991 BF8a. Use this as my trolling motor while salmon fishing. I have owned the motor for 3 years. Never had a problem with it, runs great. But, ( I may just be imagining this ), late last summer I was operating the engine and all of a sudden the engine became louder than normal. I couldn't put my finger on it and it continued to run great. In storage for the winter and out again I really noticed that it continues to run good but very loud. To give you an example, trolling at a speed of 2.5mph I almost have to yell to the guy sitting next to me in the boat. The funny thing is, at idle it purrs and you can hardly tell it is running. So, am I losing it, or anybody have suggestions what this might be? Is there an air silencer on these units?

Thanks

 

[gss036]

Re: Loud engine?

Probably the exhaust portion, upper lower leg and power head are corroded thru and gasses are escaping. Happened to a friends motor and had to have it replaced. Possible gasket, maybe HONDON will chime in here, he is the Honda guy.

 

[hondon]

Re: Loud engine?

Well here I am.I am not there hearing what you are hearing.Exhaust leaks usually become obvious in the fact that the engine will run great with the cowl off but poorly with it on.There is only one neoprene seal between that exhaust horn and the mid section.I ca'nt imagine that seal being compromised as it would lead to the above mentioned syptoms.It sounds like this unit is dumping all exhaust out of the idle relief instead of at the prop.Is this unit moored with the gearcase submerged?Stored in a barn where rodents could build a nest in that lower exhaust horn?Sounds wacky I know but it happens.Make sure that all the bolts are tight at the top of the exhaust housing and we'll go from there.