Problem with Force 40 everytime heavy load in boat.

[Kutbait]

I have an 18' pontoon boat with 1996 Force 40. Generally no problems, in fact wonderful experince, when alone or 4 people. But...everytime (3 times) I have taken 6 people in the boat I have blown a prop (rubber bushing slips) and have had to rebuild prop. So, recently I put on a new composit prop with no rubber bushing. Today, I took 6 people again -no appearant problems, except it died after going a long way in trolling speed. No overheating symtoms, no overheat smell, no audible warning, motor not especially hot. <br />But the flywheel seems frozen. I took out spark plugs to eliminate compression and still can't turn flywheel by hand. <br />Is it possible to have too much weight on board for these Force motors? Any ideas of what might have happened to freeze the flywheel will be appreciated.<br />Jerry

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: Problem with Force 40 everytime heavy load in boat.

I know you don't want to hear this but the symptoms you stated don't sound good.<br /><br />First determine if the lower unit died. It could be jamming the motor solid. You might have to drop the lower unit off and then try turning the motor.<br /><br />You might also have to remove the cylinder head and look at the pistons for damage and inspect the cylinder walls.<br /><br />Is there any burnt look to the exterior of the cylinder heads.<br /><br />Sad to say but this sounds like it will need exploratory surgery.<br /><br />Bob

 

[FlyBoyMark]

Re: Problem with Force 40 everytime heavy load in boat.

Drain the oil from the lower unit, IF there is any in it, and examine it for metal or other STUFF.<br /><br />Didja put oil in the gas last time? Didja ever check the lower unit oil?<br /><br />BAD BLUNT news is: either the lower unit is gone or the engine itself is seized. AND NO, the motor is fine for the pontoon boat if you have the rite prop on it....