JUST MY LUCK???

[catfish charlie]

hey everyone ,<br /><br />thanks for all your help. my 78merc 140.. has a bad piston. i took off the inspection cover and the top of piston looks almost flat on one side and the top ring is gone.. what could have caused this. should i rebuild this engine or just go get another one.. what u think??

 

[timmathis]

Re: JUST MY LUCK???

A rebuild would be great and last you a long time.<br />It all depends what you want or can afford. If you buy new $1,000s and will last a long time also. Used $ ? how long it will last? thats up to you Charlie... Tim

 

[andrewkafp]

Re: JUST MY LUCK???

What likely caused it was a "Lean condition" in one carb which usually affects pairs of cylinders and usuaully the top ones. The motor seems to going fine, but the top carb has a lean mix, due to gum build-up. This causes excessive heat and eventual melt-down in the cylinder.

 

[catfish charlie]

Re: JUST MY LUCK???

i have rebuilt a car engine before but is the outboard ok for a noob to rebuild.. are special tools needed...

 

[andrewkafp]

Re: JUST MY LUCK???

Member.. ZMOZ 30892 is re-building his 1400 from an "Operator error" meltdown. He will be happy to give some tips.