1985 Force 50hp - grate, cover questions

[wheresbob]

Great forum! I'm learning so much. Thanks!

1) Damaged water intake grate (not sure if this is what it's called); Can this be replaced?

2) Motor cover; the foam has been pulled off and what's left is disintegrating. Should I refoam the cover? Can I reduce the engine noise by doing so?

Any input will be greatly appreciated. Thanks again!

 

[roscoe]

Re: 1985 Force 50hp - grate, cover questions

I don't see the intake screen listed in the parts list.
The break is quite small, I would leave it alone.
Perhaps put a few drops of epoxy on it if there are additional cracks.


The foam can be replaced, it will help with the noise, somewhat.

 

[wheresbob]

Re: 1985 Force 50hp - grate, cover questions

Thanks Roscoe. I think I'll leave the screen alone. The starboard side is a bit worse, but I'm concerned epoxy might get sucked in. Would it do that even after it cured?

Thanks for your reply. jt

 

[Docdoc]

Re: 1985 Force 50hp - grate, cover questions

I disagree with the idea of leaving the foam in the cover. It never happened to me, but I've heard many on here talk about the foam disintegrating and getting sucked into the carb intake. If it is coming off anyway, I'd just go ahead and scrape it out. As far as the epoxy getting sucked in, it should be no problem if you prep the area and don't apply too much

 

[RichH]

Re: 1985 Force 50hp - grate, cover questions

I have the exact same engine, and it just keeps running and running and running. An amazing little machine, that 1985 Force 50! Anyway, I replaced my foam for two reasons: 1) it will get sucked into carb intake as it rots away and 2) it greatly reduces engine noise...makes a big difference on noise.
Also, why not grab a piece of cheap stainless screening at a hardware store and epoxy it over the grate? Just epoxy the four edges, use Marine-Tex and the screen won't budge.

 

[Kajun37]

Re: 1985 Force 50hp - grate, cover questions

when i bought my motor the foam was all crumbled and getting sucked into the carbs.....i'd definetly remove it if its starting to crumble.....i still need to put new foam in mine though.