Help with boat problem on evenrude lark 50hp

Started it up today and it sputtered to start. Finally got it going after a few minutes. I had the cover off to see what the problem was with it not starting up when a piece of metal shot off and hit me in the the arm. I shut it down and found 2 holes in what I believe to be the outside casing. (I'm new to boating and boat repair so I'm not sure). Is this a cracked block. It's a 78 evenrude Lark 50hp that I inherited. Ran great the past 4 years and I've winterized it every year. I've added a link to what the damage looks like. Any ideas on what I need to do? Can I run it this way or will it cause major damage? It seemed to still crank up after this happened but I didn't let it go long for fear something bad may happen and just used the trolling motor. Thanks for any help and advice.

http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/52/53132143720287443468120.jpg/

Re: Help with boat problem on evenrude lark 50hp

Looks like you have a rod problem. The block is probably junk, it might be repairable, but would cost quite a bit. You would also have to tear the engine down and see what type of internal damage you have.
Might be cheaper to see if you could find a used power head.

Re: Help with boat problem on evenrude lark 50hp

dlwilson24 said:

Can I run it this way or will it cause major damage?

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That photo is the definition of major damage. Sorry.

....didn't let it go long for fear something bad may happen

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Too late.

Might be cheaper to see if you could find a used power head.

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A couple of other options. Part out your engine and put the proceeds toward another one, or look for an engine with a bad gearcase that you could rob the powerhead from. You should be able to sell the lower unit and ignition components, and possibly the carbs, midsection and cowling.

Re: Help with boat problem on evenrude lark 50hp

A couple of other options. Part out your engine and put the proceeds toward another one, or look for an engine with a bad gearcase that you could rob the powerhead from. You should be able to sell the lower unit and ignition components, and possibly the carbs, midsection and cowling.[/QUOTE]

New to the boating world so need some advice here- what would be a good price to part this motor out at or where could I find some info to help me out with it. I look on line at some other motors of this type but all seemed to be in working condition so I'm not sure what to ask for if I do end up parting it out. If it is that bad this may be the best option for me to do and go with a small hp motor as I really don't need a 50hp for the lakes I fish which are small and have wake limits on all of them. Thanks for any advice.

Re: Help with boat problem on evenrude lark 50hp

Just found the same damage to a very clean 1960 40 super quiet I picked up for $50.00 damage was kinda hid behind the fuel pump, I'm just heart broke it is a very nice looker, put it on my rack and will hope to find a block, can't win em all. good luck