Seaworthy Marine Recycler is the only company on Vancouver Island to recycle older marine outboard motors. We carry parts for most makes of outboards (1985 and older). If you need it, we have it.
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We carry a wide range of parts
for older model outboards,
including:

Evinrude

Johnson Outboards
 
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Links to useful information for all
mariners.


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We specialize in Johnson and Evinrude outboards, parts and service. We have the widest range of parts for these older models that can be found on Vancouver Island.

 

Seaworthy Marine Recycler
Outboard Troubleshooting

There are 4 rules that we follow when troubleshooting your outboard motor:

Rule # 1
Never take anything for granted.

Rule #2
Believe your evidence (in other words, don't repair something that appears to be working properly).

Rule #3
If you cannot duplicate the customers problem, STOP!  Never replace parts or do any work before you are certain where the problem lies.

Rule # 4
Always obey the FIRST THREE RULES.

STEP 1.  PRELIMINARY CHECKS

A. Compression - Rope the engine over to determine if all cylinders are approximately equal.  If a gauge is used, no more than 15 lb/sq. in. difference should be seen.
B. Pull spark plugs and crank engine with spark checker installed.
C. Connect engine to fuel tank and prime the carburetors - Listen for sound of fuel entering float chambers.
D. Pull lowest gearcase fill screw and observe appearance of gear oil-water, emulsion (oil and water churned up together - milky looking), burnt, or metal in oil.  Any problems, disassemble and repair.
DO THESE CHECK REGARDLESS OF THE REASON THE UNIT CAME IN, EVEN IF THE BOAT DID NOT COME IN FOR ENGINE SERVICE.  THERE IS NO POINT IN DOING ANY WORK ON THE UNIT IF IT DOES NOT PASS THESE BASIC CHECKS.
YOUR NEXT STEP WILL BE DETERMINED BY THE RESULTS YOU GET FROM THE ABOVE CHECKS.
STEP 2.  INSPECTION
A. Compression:
  1. If any noticeable difference is felt, remove the cylinder head (or heads) and inspect - you may have just sold a major overhaul.  If removal of the head shows no major problem, remove by-pass and exhaust covers.  You must be certain there is no damage.
B. Ignition:
  1. Troubleshoot as per service manual.
  2. Remember!  Your purpose here is to test the complete system and then to separate the components in order to isolate the one that is faulty.
  3. Remember rule #2 - You may have nothing more serious than the incorrect spark plug.
  4. Don't forget the key or stop switch (and isolation diodes on V-4's and V-6's).
  5. Check the entire system.  There could be more than one faulty component.
  6. Replace only one component at a time and re-check.  It could be faulty from new.
C. Fuel System:
  • If you followed the preliminary check, you know that you have fuel as far as the float bowls.  You do not know:  
    1. Condition of the fuel pump(s)
    2. Whether the internal passages in the carbs are clear.
    3. If the synchronization is properly set up.
    4. If the reed valves are ok.
  • Attempt to start the engine.  If it will start, isolate the cylinder or cylinders involved and take corrective action.
  • If the engine will not start, inject fuel via carb throat or primer circuit and attempt to start.  If engine runs briefly, fuel system is clogged.  Clean out and re-test.
  • Test fuel pump for diaphragm leaks and pressure output.  On V-4's and V-6's, fuel system vacuum must also be measured.
WITH PRACTICE, THESE CHECKS CAN BE CARRIED OUT IN 10 TO 20 MINUTES DEPENDING ON THE H.P. OF THE ENGINE.  YOU WILL SELL MORE SERVICE WORK AND WILL HAVE MORE CONFIDENCE.  YOU WILL AVOID WASTING TIME OR BEING CAUGHT OFF GUARD.  GOOD TROUBLESHOOTING IS THE KEY TO GOOD SERVICE.



Check out our wide range of parts for older model outboard engines (1985 and older). Have an older outboard that you don't know what to do with? Bring it to us. We'll give it new life. Need more info? Give ua a call (286-3361) or email us. We would be happy to help!

Need specific part, for a specific engine? Check out our "Find a Part" page. We'll help you find what you need.

We are all about outboards and outboards only. We do not carry parts for, or service, inboard engines. Check out our "Services" page for more info.
 
   
     
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