1960 Evinrude Lark 2 wont stay running

[brendan.ryan]

Re: 1960 Evinrude Lark 2 wont stay running

Should the gap in the points be set at .020" when the cam on the driveshaft pushes them open? right now that is how they are set.

 

[kfa4303]

Re: 1960 Evinrude Lark 2 wont stay running

correct, one set of points should be open to .020" when the rocker arm is on the highest point of the cam lobe. At the same time, the opposite set of points will be fully closed. In this way the cylinders fire in an alternating pattern. Here's a great ignition rebuild link. It's for a slightly different model, but all of the steps are the same for your motor.

3 HP Evinrude Lightwin Ignition System Tune-Up 1952-1967

 

[brendan.ryan]

Re: 1960 Evinrude Lark 2 wont stay running

Thank you again for the help, I have very strong sparks in both plugs now.

Would it be bad to give it a go with the old head gasket?

 

[kfa4303]

Re: 1960 Evinrude Lark 2 wont stay running

I wouldn't reuse it. New gaskets are only about $15. I just installed a new head gasket on my 20hp and it made a world of difference. Be sure you tighten the head bolts down to the proper spec as well following the method below.

 

[brendan.ryan]

Re: 1960 Evinrude Lark 2 wont stay running

My new head gasket arrived earlier today. I got it in, put the new plugs in, and she feels like she will go. great compression, compared to before. much better spark. is there anything else I should do before giving it a go? how do I wire it up if Its I not in the boat? can I just jump the starter directly to the battery? how do I turn it off besides choking it?

 

[kfa4303]

Re: 1960 Evinrude Lark 2 wont stay running

Glad you got your bits installed. For starters, make sure that the head bolts are torqued to the proper spec. Next, makes sure the spark plugs are properly installed and that the lead going from the coil located above the carb is connected to the top (#1) sparkplug with the other lead connected to the lower plug. You can connect the starter leads to the battery to test the system. The motor should have a black, push button kill switch on the front, if memory serves. Do you have a pic? You'll also want to use 24:1 fuel-oil mix. Spraying a bit into the cylinders before you install the spark plugs can help prime the system a bit. You also need to run the motor in a test tank with water filled up to about 1"-2" below the main exhaust port. Don't be surprised if it takes a few frustrating attempts to get her to fire up, but if it doesn't start after 5-6 tries, I would take a step back and start troubleshooting. Good luck. Keep us posted.

 

[brendan.ryan]

Re: 1960 Evinrude Lark 2 wont stay running

Well, it didnt start. A few times it would fire on one cylinder, but wouldn't go to the next. Any suggestions?

 

[brendan.ryan]

Re: 1960 Evinrude Lark 2 wont stay running

Also noticed fuel coming out of the carb intake.... why is this happening?

 

[kfa4303]

Re: 1960 Evinrude Lark 2 wont stay running

If fuel is coming out of the carb that means it's flooding and it's usually due to a stuck float needle. Did you confirm spark on each cylinder prior to trying to start it?