57 evinrude 18hp after the winter

[jimraelee]

Hello... Some old cars are worth putting big money into but im not familiar with boat engines.. is a 57 18hp evinrude motor worth spending the money to have the carb removed and cleaned... also of note the engine has two funny issues 1) after about 1/2mi of open crusing.. the motors looses rpms and the engine sound is murmered... not like a fuel issue... and 2) when the engine sits for a while and you want to start it, its locked. I mean you have to remove the cover and then rotate the flywheel with your hands to break loose.. after that it pulls just fine... so i dont think its seized up Ive run 50:1 in it since buying used 2yr ago... any ideas on the issue and should I dump $300 into gettting the carbs tuned up???<br /><br />jim

 

[JB]

Re: 57 evinrude 18hp after the winter

Hello, JButter.<br /><br />Don't use 50:1 in OMC engines built before 1964, and do not listen to the know-it-alls who say it's okay unless they will sign a promise to pay for a rebuild. <br /><br />Your '57 engine has sleeve bearings in several places that require more lubrication than the needles and balls used in later engines.<br /><br />Your engine is seizing from lack of lubrication. It is a real miracle what abuse those old OMC engines will take and keep on ticking!<br /><br />Feed her 16:1 (3 pints to 6 gallons) for one tankfull, then use 24:1 (1 qt per 6 gallons). She may survive. Also, use 87 octane gas and a good, TC-W3 rated outboard oil.<br /><br />Double check that she is getting adequate cooling water, or replace the impeller in the water pump.<br /><br />Let us know how it goes.

 

[rolmops]

Re: 57 evinrude 18hp after the winter

Hello.<br />There are places where you can buy two or three carburators for your engine for less than 300 box!<br />There is only one carburator on your engine and a very simple one at that.So simple that most people can service it at home!!!If you have left it over the winter with fuel inside you may want to service it.After checking the impeller, you should just see if it runs on the mix the admiral advised you to use.Just dump a can of carburator cleaner in the tank and hope for the best.<br />Good luck.