1957 Evinrude 5.5 hp tell tale

[Reg312]

looking at a 1957 Evinrude 5.5 hp that runs and looks like its in good shape. I've heard some of these older motors do not have a tell tale. Is this one of those motors? I've also read some need special pressurized tanks. This does come with tank but again, is this motor one of those that need that special tank? His asking price is $300 but I think he;ll accept $250.

 

[Joe Reeves]

Re: 1957 Evinrude 5.5 hp tell tale

The 1957 model does not have a water tell tale outlet.

Yes, it does require a pressure tank (dual hose).

 

[1946Zephyr]

Re: 1957 Evinrude 5.5 hp tell tale

There is an exhaust hole in the back, below the lower shroud and a nice big stream of water should come out of there while it's running. If it doesn't appear to be very strong, then you might need a new impeller.

 

[Dave2507]

Re: 1957 Evinrude 5.5 hp tell tale

Also make sure and run enough oil in the gas. 50:1 is the main killer of these old motors.
I run most of mine at 16:1, 8 oz/gallon, but that one might be 24:1, 6 oz/gallon.
I'm sure someone here knows for sure.

 

[1946Zephyr]

Re: 1957 Evinrude 5.5 hp tell tale

1960 and earlier 5.5's run at 16:1 1961 and later run 24:1. That was when they started building them with the needle bearings in the crank and rods.

Also, when you run that motor, make sure your water level is up to the lower rubber mounts. You'll need at least this much to ensure your water pump is fully submerged.

 

[Joe Reeves]

Re: 1957 Evinrude 5.5 hp tell tale

A mixture of 24/1 can be safely used in that engine.

 

[1946Zephyr]

Re: 1957 Evinrude 5.5 hp tell tale

Really? The decals on the front of my '55 Johnson CD and my '58 Fisherman show 1/2 pint per gallon. I was under the impression that 24:1 was the proper mix, for the motors that have the needle bearing cranks, like the 10hps and above. Friction based motors like the 7.5's and smaller would require more oil. That's just my understanding

 

[Joe Reeves]

Re: 1957 Evinrude 5.5 hp tell tale

The oils of 50 years or so ago, although looked upon as state of the art stuff at the time, left something to be desired as compared with what we have today. The older engines that incorporate needle, ball, and/or roller bearings on all of their powerhead moving parts can safely use the 50/1 mixture..... the 24/1 mixture falls back on any engine that might have babbit, bronze bushing bearings etc on their crankshaft, wrist pin bearing, etc. However, if the old mixtures of 50 years ago gives one peace of mind, it's understandable..... now, kill that freaking bug, it's getting on my nerves

 

[1946Zephyr]

Re: 1957 Evinrude 5.5 hp tell tale

Yea, I love old Harold. I picked him up on a chainsaw forum.

 

[Steve A W]

Re: 1957 Evinrude 5.5 hp tell tale

The first time I saw that Bug, I smacked the screen!
Steve A W