Need Help Waking up a 40hp Merc from a 2 year nap

[Redkneck]

Hey guys, got a deal on a bass tracker from a buddy that quit fishing. Boat was running ok before he put it up 2 years ago but he doesnt fish anymore so he sold it to me. I'd like some basic info before I get started with it, such as where to look up the model year, what fuel ratio, and any suggestions for me before I get started with it.

Serial number is 6053359. Looks like it needs a new fuel line, I've always had johnson stuff in the past, this one has a different tank fitting with a probe sticking out in the center, and has a hose clamp on the motor end. Should I change that out to something else or are all the mercs like this? Any help is appreciated.

John

 

[Redkneck]

Re: Need Help Waking up a 40hp Merc from a 2 year nap

I did figure out it was an '82 model from a google search if that helps.

 

[carholme]

Re: Need Help Waking up a 40hp Merc from a 2 year nap

It is a 1982 and a model:

1040522 MERCURY 1982 40

Parts Listing:

http://www.crowleymarine.com/mercury-outboard/673.cfm

OEM Service Manual P/N: 90-42794--1

Here is a condensed version of the Clymer manual which will help you until you get started. Let the page load for several seconds and then download soonest to your computer as the link is short lived.

http://web.ebscohost.com/serrc/pdf?...8-9e83-d5abe1edf486@sessionmgr14&vid=4&hid=10

Like any other engine that has sat for a period of time, impeller change, LU oil change, wiring condition, etc. 50:1 fuel/oil and give each cylinder a good shot of the mix and let sit for a few hours before turning the engine over.

Good luck with your new toy and I hope everything works well for you.

Gerry

Gerry

 

[Redkneck]

Re: Need Help Waking up a 40hp Merc from a 2 year nap

Exactly what I was looking for Gerry thank you! And yes impeller and lube was going to be at the top of the list. What exactly do you mean by giving each cylinder a shot? Pull the plugs and spray the cylinder with fuel?

 

[carholme]

Re: Need Help Waking up a 40hp Merc from a 2 year nap

Yes, just to get some lube on the walls.

Gerry

 

[xjma]

Re: Need Help Waking up a 40hp Merc from a 2 year nap

If you could get the motor horizontal so the cylinders are pointing up that would help by allowing gravity to work the lube past the pistons and down into the crank case a bit, hopefully, rather than just fall out the exhaust ports....but any lube is better than none. Personally I would use straight 2stroke, a few hours before you pull it, and then a tiny bit right before you give it a try, but from the short time I've been on this forum it seems that Carholme really knows his ****.

 

[Redkneck]

Re: Need Help Waking up a 40hp Merc from a 2 year nap

Thanks guys! Should I ditch the barbed fuel line adapter on the tank end? I have to get a new hose for sure. also what are your thoughts on pulling the thermostat? I've had folks tell me to just take them out since I don't run in cold weather.

 

[lakedweller1]

Re: Need Help Waking up a 40hp Merc from a 2 year nap

That is a standard Mercury fuel line connector. Unless your having to change out tanks or just didn't come with any, I would not change it unless it leaks. The "Universal" fittings now are the old Evinrude/Johnson fittings. Just a personal preference thing really. I still use my Merc fittings on a 1975 Merc bought new in 1975. The fitting on the Motor itself can cause issues when old and/or worn. When I replaced my fuel line last, I removed the fitting on the motor and ran the fuel line into the motor housing and straight to the fuel pump. If it is a motor that you do not plan on removing from the boat, just makes sense anyway.

 

[Redkneck]

Re: Need Help Waking up a 40hp Merc from a 2 year nap

What's the best trick to get the lower lined up to be re-installed to get past that last 3/4" back where it needs to be? Thought it would be easier than my buddy's mercruiser, but I gave up yesterday after about 20 minutes of trying and fading sunlight.

 

[carholme]

Re: Need Help Waking up a 40hp Merc from a 2 year nap

If the boat and the LU are both in the same gear and you are having problems with that last inch, reach up and turn the flywheel a bit to line up the splines on top of the driveshaft with the crank splines. Better if you have someone there to turn the flywheel for you.

Gerry

 

[Redkneck]

Re: Need Help Waking up a 40hp Merc from a 2 year nap

Will try again when I get home. Had controls in neutral when I took it off, and still there. Can't say exactly what position the splined shifter shaft is on the lower right now, but I haven't rotated it.

Rotated the flywheel some yesterday, will try again today. I know they can be a pain, luckily this one is light enough I don't have to have help (though it would be nice).

Thanks!

 

[Redkneck]

Re: Need Help Waking up a 40hp Merc from a 2 year nap

Motor runs great, thanks for the help. Peeing water like me with a six pack. Only one tiny issue:

Gears grinding slightly before getting into reverse, maybe a second or two (is this normal for a merc?) And yes it is idled all the way down before making the switch.

Secondly, the motor is not "locking" when going into reverse i.e. the push rod is not engaging the mechanism that keeps it from rising when throttled in reverse. I did notice the plastic cam was pretty bad looking, maybe i need to pull the lower again and replace it?