Suggestions for resurrecting a Mark 58AE?

[threedeesmax]

I bought an old runabout a couple of years ago and put it away until I had time to get it into shape. Now, I have the time, and have been busy restoring the boat's finish and color.<br /> That's about done, so it's time to see if I can get the motor started. I've built my share of automotive engines, but this is my first boat, and I don't know Jack about outboard motors. I'll install new plugs and wires, but don't even know how to change the oil and filter, or what to do about getting the carbs ready, etc. The motor will turn by hand, so it's not locked up. What would you do to try and get the old motor started?

 

[Laddies]

Re: Suggestions for resurrecting a Mark 58AE?

No engine oil or filter, fill the lower unit with gearlube, fill from the bottom to the top ot prevent air lock. Ck for spark, hope it has spark, ign. parts for the old girl are pricey. If it's got spark put it in some water and see if it will run, if it runs make sure the w/pump works, probably not so you will have to repair it next---Bob

 

[rodbolt]

Re: Suggestions for resurrecting a Mark 58AE?

before doing anything test compression, then test spark. you may want to take it for a cylinder leakdown test. next inspect the fluid in the lower. if it has compression next is to clean the points so the mag can spark. if you now have spark and compression rebuild the carbs and the fuel pump, replacing any dry rotted fuel lines while your in it. now you will have compression, spark and fuel. next is to install a water pump inpeller. someplace I have a homemade spanner to remove the pump cap if its the style that the pump sits in a cavity with a cap screwed on it. was a place in wisconsin, skipper B's I think, that specialized it old merc parts. I restored a mk58a in 97 for a Dr and the original points were NLA but they sent me a set with modification instructions that worked well. dont try to start it with an impeller that old. if it breaks up you may have other problems with rubber parts in the powerhead passages. if you absolutly must have and gotta hear it run remove the lower and use a hose on the seawater tube in the midsection. my advice is to purchase a service manual and study it real hard before touching anything and take plenty of photos. also forget you ever heard the word car mechanic.