1954 Evinrude 15hp Recoil sticks

I recently purchased a boat with a 1954 Evinrude 15hp motor. The recoil sticks when trying to start. The rope does not go back in. I took the recoil mechanism off, cleaned it with WD40. When I loosen the center bolt holding the spring grippers on, the recoil will go back in. The spring seems to be good, as the recoil will go in and out. It feels strong. However, when I loosen the center bolt, the mechanism slips eventually and then the head grippers don't extend and retrack as they should to spin the motor head. It's like the center bolt, when fully tightened, is causing the rope/recoil to stick. When I loosen it, the recoil doesn't stick, but then the mechanism slips and the head grippers don't grab to rotate the motor to start. Any advice would be great. By the way, being 52 years old, the motor may not be as strong as it should, but it runs great! They built things to last back then. No plastic!

Any suggestions?

Thanks - Bryan

Re: 1954 Evinrude 15hp Recoil sticks

I'm not positive without looking it up, but doesn't that recoil have the 3 pawls to grab the cage on the flywheel? If so, I can tell you exactly what's wrong. Somebody has had it apart and didn't put it back together correctly. Unhook the three little pawl springs, and remove the center bolt and hub (careful, the rope pulley and spring can come flying out...secure it) Now, look at the hub. There is a step in diameter near the big end. The friction spring has to be completely up on that step before reinstalling the hub back into the pulley. Do that and it will work....guaranteed.

Re: 1954 Evinrude 15hp Recoil sticks

agreed

Re: 1954 Evinrude 15hp Recoil sticks

Thanks - I'll give it a try and let you know how it goes. You don't know how much I appreciate your help. I felt lost. I know I need to be careful when taking it apart. A service guy told me not to take it apart because it takes a special tool to reload the spring.

Re: 1954 Evinrude 15hp Recoil sticks

Oh yeah, it does have the three pawls you spoke of, so you nailed it!

Thanks

Re: 1954 Evinrude 15hp Recoil sticks

tashasdaddy said:

agreed

Click to expand...

FR
Have one at the ranch tonite with the exact same problem. Some people should not be allowed to operate tools on outboard motors !! Parts installed incorrectly is a common sight here at the ranch.. You folks are a joy to read about. I'm glad I found you.
Doug @ Lakeside Ranch

Re: 1954 Evinrude 15hp Recoil sticks

Well it really doesn't take any special tools to rewind the spring. Just didn't want it jumping out of there and slashing somebody's jugular.