Evinrude 6 hp 1966, won't run

Hello,

I am an amateur small engine tinkerer but think I have a good sense of what I am doing. I have a 1966 6 hp E-rude that was given to me not running. When I inspected it I saw that the lower spark plug was clean and the upper was dirty. I have read somewhere this was an indication of a bad lower seal. I proceeded to rebuild the carb and replace the fuel pump, plugs and impeller. The ignition parts all looked brand new so I left them alone. The motor ran good for several trips to the lake and then quit. No amount of tinkering will get it started. During the time it "ran good" I always had to choke it to start and it would not idle. (Low speed jets are clear). If I pull the plugs after pulling the starter rope they are dry. The carb is getting fuel and I am reasonably sure the carb is OK. Do you think I have a bad seal causing a very lean condition? What is the "for sure" test?

Thanks in advance for your help. Tom

Re: Evinrude 6 hp 1966, won't run

Actually, as concerning the seal, you cannot tell if it is bad or not on that motor...until it destroys the powerhead from water intrusion. It will run just fine without the seal because it has a bronze bushing for the crank main bearing, providing enough seal to let it run but not keep water out.

You need to get back to basics: Check the compression (could have blown the head gasket), Check the spark (should jump a 1/4" gap), make sure the carb is ok, (Hey you said it wouldn't idle)

Re: Evinrude 6 hp 1966, won't run

You have had a carb problem all along, Tom. It is not a good idea to continue to run an outboard that clearly has a problem.

I think it is the carb, but I don't mess with stuff until I have hard evidence that that part needs messing with. Saves me bazillions of bux by not fixing what ain't broke.

Go to the Engine FAQs and do "Outboard won't start". That will tell you where the problem is.

Let us know what you find, and good luck.