1956 Evinrude 15 -- Carb Problems?

[jwyler]

Hi, I would greatly appreciate any advice...I have a '56 Evinrude that won't start. I cleaned out the carbs several months ago, but didn't replace any parts (and put in a new impeller and clutch dog at the time), prior to which the engine ran. I got a new tank of gas, just to be sure that is fresh. The motor will run/start momentarily with some starter spray, but then dies immediately, which makes me think the issue has due to do with the carburetor and not spark or other systems. I've messed with the needle adjustments, following directions that I got on this site a while back, but don't have a whole lot of confidence in that or that this ancient motor necessarily will respond to anything "normal". What to do? Thanks for any tips! --Jon

[JB]

Go to Engine FAQs, Jon.Let us know what you find.

[jwyler]

Yep, I've read and tried all the "Awakening..." tips in the FAQ and was hoping for some more help on the diagnostic side. --Jon

[Paul Moir]

It should adjust like any other OMC. Out one on the high speed, out one and 1/2 on the idle as initial settings. If it'll only start on starter spray then clearly either fuel isn't getting into the carburetor, or fuel isn't getting carbureted by the carburetor. You can very the first one by popping the hose off the carb.You've got the tank primed properly right? The tank closed and primed with the little plunger on it?Do not use starter spray unless it says on it it's good for 2-cycles. Otherwise it contains no lube and will wash out what little lube is in the engine. Use a windex type bottle filled with premix instead).