Re: 225 Evinrude Starting problem
Time to find a more "savvy" shop... If it's backfiring, that indicates a timing problem such as a spun or loose sensor magnet. (that could also be the reason for the prior overhaul). Remove all spark plugs, insert the eraser end of a long pencil into cylinder #1 (thats top starboard as you're standing behind the motor looking forward) - hold the pencil with one hand and turn the flywheel with the other hand. Index the flywheel by bringing #1 piston to top-dead-center (TDC). The piston will push the pencil out of the plug hole. When the pencil stops moving out, you're at (approximately) TDC, then make a mark (#1) on the flywheel in front of the timing pointer (white-out works well). Repeat the procedure for the remaining 5 cylinders, labeling your marks 2,3,4,5,6.<br /><br />Hook up a timing light to #1 spark plug lead and have a helper turn the engine over at the key switch. Look to see if the mark you made is close to the timing pointer (it should be). Repeat the procedure for the remaining 5 cylinders (hook the timing light to #2, 3, etc). If its not, you'll have to remove the flywheel and inspect the magnet on the center hub - it may be loose or it could have locked it self back on, but out of its correct position. <br /><br />-John<br /><br />BTW - one final thought, a sheared flywheel key could cause the same symptom. When you bring #1 cylinder to TDC, the timing pointer should be almost perfectly lined up with the cast in TDC mark on the flywheel.
