Evinrude 4hp carb/idle problem

I bought an Evinrude 4hp (1972?) as a parts motor but decided to try and get it running instead of tearing it apart. To my surprise I was able to get a good spark to both cylinders and gas to the carb. My issue is the following:

With the choke out and after a handful of pulls to the motor I can get it to run but once I begin to adjust the choke it bogs down and dies. I'm not even to the point of adjusting the knobs as I really have no place to begin with the choke out. This motor probably sat for years (maybe even at the bottom of a lake for all I know). The longest that I have run her is about a minute with the choke out.

I don't know much about rebuilding carburetors but can always learn something new. Is this the direction I need to go or are there other suggestions before traveling down this path. I do have a service manual for this motor that I'm familiarizing myself with.

Thanks for any help

Re: Evinrude 4hp carb/idle problem

hi landbaron2. no worries. rebuilding a carb isn't nearly as difficult as it sounds. in fact you can get a rebuild kit right here from iboats for approx. $20-$30. The fact that you've go the motor to run means it's probably worth the trouble. the good news is that all of these old Jhonson and Evinrude motors uses very similar/interchangeable parts over the years and they are fun and easy to work on. Here's a couple good links on how to rebuild the carb of a very similar model to your own. i would also recommend a new impeller (waterpump) and new set of points and condensers, often called a "tune up kit". They're each about $20 and worth every penny. they're easy to install and will ensure good water delivery and strong consistent spark for years to come. start with the carb rebuild and impeller, then if she runs ok and pumps water go ahead with the tune up kit and you'll have a virtually new motor for under $100 in parts. there are tons of old posts here in the forums for virtually and trouble you may run into and tons of folks who know all about these motors. good luck. keep us posted.

http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=167352
http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=158086
http://www.maxrules.com/FIXTENTUNE.HTM
http://www.outboard-boat-motor-repa...hnson 5.5 HP 1954-1964 Carburetor Tune-UP.htm
http://www.maxrules.com/fixtuneitup.html

Re: Evinrude 4hp carb/idle problem

Thanks for all the great links. I have her running like a top with just a few adjustments to the carb. I did the following to bring her back to life without choking her . I went through the service manual and reset the low and high speed needles as follows: low 3/4 turn from seated and high 1 3/4 turn from seated. Hit the carb with some starting fluid and she started up. I then proceeded to set the low speed needle followed by the high speed. I'm at a low altitude and she runs great. I do plan on replacing he fuel lines but the carb seems to be feeding the engine just fine. It probably wouldn't hurt to rebuild the carb but for the time being I'm pleased just to hear her sing.

Re: Evinrude 4hp carb/idle problem

Well that is good news for sure. They are great motors for sure. I would suggest checking the compression soon. Take the above advice and you won't be sorry. Do change the impeller now matter what. Best of luck. Rick.