1988 50HP Force

[jewwells]

Have a 1988 50HP Force, owned since new. Have not done much to it at all (just new plugs every other year change gear lube & such). Still runs great. <br />I am wondering if I should change the impeller or pump or any other vital parts. Have a new litte fishing partner to take out now & sure don't want to have problems with the little guy on board.<br />Any Idea's would be much appreciated.<br /><br />Thanks

 

[John5421]

Re: 1988 50HP Force

I'm speaking from experience, I almost burned up my powerhead because of the drive pin in the impeller broke. And it was only a $.79 part, ended up costing me about $100 to fix my motor because I have a good mechanic, that's my faher in law. I suggest changing the impeller every year especially if you fish when the water is extremely cold. I also would get in the habit of changing you lower unit oil every year also. Because force parts are becoming harder to find and in the next 5 to 10yrs will likely not be able to find any at a dealer that is. More importantly like you said with a little one you don't want to be stranded somewhere.

 

[roscoe]

Re: 1988 50HP Force

Change the fuel pump diaphram, $10. They rot with age and faster if any gas with ethanol was ever used. <br /><br />Fuel filter.<br /><br />Decarbon the engine.<br />Search for "decarb process" using the search function at top of page.

 

[force01]

Re: 1988 50HP Force

you should service your water pump anually and gear oil at the end of every season. run quality outboard oil like mercury quicksilver premium plus and the highest grade fuel you can get. good luck, bret forceparts@yahoo.com

 

[The Marine Doctor]

Re: 1988 50HP Force

Yes..Inspect the impeller each year. Inspect the gear oil often..change as necessary throughout the year...and for sure at the end of the year.<br /><br />As for Premium plus oil, and Higher than recommended octane fuel. Why not just throw money over the side of the boat instead.<--Just my opinion.<br /><br />Mercury brand regular premix meets or exceeds what the engine needs. As long as you are running at 50:1 you will be getting the proper amount of lube and cleaning additives that your engine requires. I have yet to see a marine engine that performs any better off High octane fuel.<br /><br />Every couple years...Decarb the engine. Although you may never really need to do this, it will not hurt the engine..only benefit it.<br /><br />TMD

 

[jewwells]

Re: 1988 50HP Force

Thanks for the info! I do change the gear lube every year, I knew that was mandatory.<br /><br />Looks like I have a few projects to do on the ol' Force. <br />Is the water pump & impeller had to get at? I have not purchased a service manual for this engine. I will order the parts this week, hopefully they will show up by Saturday.<br /><br />Captin, I agree I have read several articles & tried different types of oil & gas. Not only in the boat but my motorcycles & cars as well. Seems to make no difference. Unless it is specified buy what ever meets the basic grade.