1968 Evinrude 6hp loses power when in forward

My '68 5hp Evinrude ran great one day. After running it for about 20 minutes, I did some fishing for 1/2 hour and fired it back up. The motor idled fine in neutral. I could even rev it to high rpms and it sounded great. When I put it in forward and opened it up, it had no power. It was like I was going at idle speed. This happened once before. On that occasion, all of the sudden, it was like the motor got a boost and it ran at top speed. I have recently rebuilt the carburator. Any ideas on why this is happening? I can't fish until I fix it

Re: 1968 Evinrude 6hp loses power when in forward

Hi kingpin2,<br />I had the same problem with my Evin 18 from 1967.<br />Look at the coils, if they are cracked you have to buy a new one.<br />But this is just one of the problem that may occur! <br />Good luck!

Re: 1968 Evinrude 6hp loses power when in forward

Hi Kingpin,<br /> You're describing classic ignition problems. Start with the easy stuff... The coils by the late 1960s are generally pretty good and don't crack like the ones from the 1950s/early 1960s. The condensers can go bad and are a cheap and easy replacement. The points may also be in need of servicing. They're cheap and easy to replace, but also very easy to clean up if you choose to go that route. Also, check the plug wires for breaks or cracks where they may be arcing to the motor block, particularly anywhere they're anchored to the block.<br /> You'll need to invest in or borrow a 3-point harmonic balancer puller and some 1/4"-20 high-grade bolts to access the ignition system.<br /> Bottom line is to start with a good cleaning and gapping of the points and see where that gets you. Gap them at .020" with the fiber rider portion of the points aligned with the crankshaft keyway on the cam.<br /> New plugs (Champion J6C) may be in order, too...<br />- Scott

Re: 1968 Evinrude 6hp loses power when in forward

KINGPIN2,<br />This is off subject, but if your motor revs up while in forward gear, your propeller hub may be slipping. Especially if you back off throttle and it seems to catch and go. Remove prop. and inspect backside for burnt rubber hub or any signs of slipping.<br />Mike