[Bama Runabout]

I have spent the past 2 years away from my boat on military duty, and today I fired up my motor (hooked to a hose) and it ran great, but I didn't see the stream of water. Water did spit out the two exhaust holes on the back of the leg. I shut the motor down because I didn't want it to overheat due to a blockage. I thought there was a pee hole on this motor, but I really can't remember. I studied the motor but could not locate a pee hole. Does this motor have a pee hole and if so, where is it? Thanks.Bama Runabout

[Bob in Calif.]

First of all, welcome home.... I have an identical engine, '77, 85 HP. They do not have the "tell tale" water spout. You can install one as the parts are readily available and quite reasonable. Due to the 2 years of inactivity, you will want to replace your water pump impeller and change the oil in your lower unit. It wouldn't be a bad idea to pressure and vaccum check your lower unit also. Then you can lube all the lube points and replace the spark plugs, then winterize the motor and then you will be already for spring! Hopefully you will have some time to enjoy you boat before the weather turns sour on you.Again, welcome back to reality and enjoy!!! ...Bob in Calif...

[OBJ]

Hey Bama....glad ya' made it back in one piece...Yer ol' shaker don't have a pee hole. Just run her on the muffs and keep tabs on the temp. If you can hold your fingers on the flat place just forward of the top of the heads for a few seconds, should be ok. But if she ain't run for a while, probably be best off to just change out the water pump impeller. Make sure the fuel is fresh also.