Mercury 40hp outboard problems

[johnbuczek51]

Just purchased a 1973 14' Starcraft Holiday which has attached to it a 1973 Mercury 40hp outboard. Immediate problems appear to be (1) motor is frozen and unable to pull. (2) controls are locked cannot move into gear with-out motor running. Any suggestions as to what to look for?

..........thanks john

 

[GA_Boater]

Re: Mercury 40hp outboard problems

It's a salt water boat, isn't it? I'd drop the lower unit to see if the motor is stuck or if the lower is rusted solid due to water intrusion. Given the lack of shifting, I'm leaning toward the lower for starters..

 

[johnbuczek51]

Re: Mercury 40hp outboard problems

Thanks for the quick reply however boat & motor have only been in fresh water.

 

[Laddies]

Re: Mercury 40hp outboard problems

Take it back to the seller and get your money back, it started out trouble and will only get worst.

 

[johnbuczek51]

Re: Mercury 40hp outboard problems

I appreciate your advice, however for $500 I got a 1973 in excellent condition 14' Starcraft, with a fairly new trailer and the motor attached. I think the motor can be salvaged.

.......thanks john

 

[GA_Boater]

Re: Mercury 40hp outboard problems

Since you're keeping it, drop the lower to find out what's locked up.

 

[johnbuczek51]

Re: Mercury 40hp outboard problems

Will do.... seems I saw something of this in an older thread. Thanks

 

[johnbuczek51]

Re: Mercury 40hp outboard problems

Will do.... seems I saw something of this in an older thread. Thanks

OK... so I thought I saw something about the lower unit...........however I have no clue as to how to "drop the lower unit"

Any suggestions..............maybe some pics to help

 

[bgc]

Re: Mercury 40hp outboard problems

Best money you can spend on this motor, Mercury Manual (not the Seloc)... Manuals

 

[carholme]

Re: Mercury 40hp outboard problems

John;

You haven't provided the s/n for your engine but this condensed version of the Clymer manual will help you get the lower unit removed. Download it soonest to your computer as the link is short lived.
What you require begins at R&R AND OVERHAUL, on page 237.

Small Engine Repair Reference Center Home: MERCURY - TWO-CYLINDER MODELS.

Gerry

 

[johnbuczek51]

Re: Mercury 40hp outboard problems

Gerry.... thanks for the link & info. I was able to download and save. I posted this because the controls are "locked up" and someone posted in reply "Since you're keeping it, drop the lower to find out what's locked up."

Again thanks.......john

PS: SN - 3475092
Year - 1973
2 cyl. 40 hp

 

[GA_Boater]

Re: Mercury 40hp outboard problems

Gerry.... thanks for the link & info. I was able to download and save. I posted this because the controls are "locked up" and someone posted in reply "Since you're keeping it, drop the lower to find out what's locked up."

Again thanks.......john

PS: SN - 3475092
Year - 1973
2 cyl. 40 hp

That was me. I suggested dropping the lower to determine if the motor is frozen or if the lower is frozen. And I also said given the inability to shift points to the lower. But you have to start somewhere and It's a good a place as any.

I missed your reply or I would have clarified.

 

[johnbuczek51]

Re: Mercury 40hp outboard problems

That was me. I suggested dropping the lower to determine if the motor is frozen or if the lower is frozen. And I also said given the inability to shift points to the lower. But you have to start somewhere and It's a good a place as any.

I missed your reply or I would have clarified.

Thanks. Now I might have be able to determine if there is a problem. I should be able to drop the unit using the picture in the manual that Gerry provided a link to.

Thanks............john

PS: I just noticed you have a Starcraft powered by a "merc" also...........john

 

[GA_Boater]

Re: Mercury 40hp outboard problems

Sure do. A great combination.