Starter Problem(1968 18HP Evinrude).

iboat2011

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
May 22, 2011
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34
Hello,

When I tried to start my motor by turning the key switch, the part on the crankcase cover used to hold starter motor broke. As a result, there is a hole now on the crankcase cover.

What could be the root cause of this, faulty wiring or starter/solenoid?

Instead of finding a replacement for the crankcase cover, can I just get a basic welder(like those sold in Harbor Freight) to weld the part back to the crankcase cover?

Thanks a lot in advance!
Andrew
 

Chinewalker

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Aug 19, 2001
Messages
8,902
Re: Starter Problem(1968 18HP Evinrude).

You will need to remove the crankcase cover to have it welded properly by someone who knows what they're doing. The Alumweld stuff won't hack it.

I've seen several of those old 18s with busted crankcases like yours - I don't think the crankcase was ever designed to support that much weight in the first place and if there are any flaws in the casting, over time it'll crack...
 

Home Cookin'

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May 26, 2009
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9,715
Re: Starter Problem(1968 18HP Evinrude).

I think, like chinewalker, you are a victim of the pot metal they use on outboards. I had to junk a well-running '64 18 for a similar reason; the shifter handle broke, many of the bolts were frozen. Also had the bottom cowl of a 9.9 break.

Can you resolve just to go back to pull-start?
 

iboat2011

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Joined
May 22, 2011
Messages
34
Re: Starter Problem(1968 18HP Evinrude).

Thank you for the quick reply!

I wish I can to back to manual start. But now there is a hole in the crankcase cover which has to be fixed. Instead of paying someone else to weld it, I am just wonder if it can be done by a basic welder(MIG or TIG) easily. Does anyone(who has dones so) want to share any idea how to do it propely?

Thanks a lot!
Andrew
 

iboat2011

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
May 22, 2011
Messages
34
Re: Starter Problem(1968 18HP Evinrude).

Hello,

Just wondering if anyone knows if the crankcase cover(on this kind of motor) is pot metal or aluminum. Either way, can anyone kindly share any experience regarding to how to weld it using MIG or TIG welder?

Thanks a lot in advance!
Andrew
 

Chinewalker

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Joined
Aug 19, 2001
Messages
8,902
Re: Starter Problem(1968 18HP Evinrude).

Yes, they can be welded. They are not 'pot metal', per se, but they are a very porous aluminum casting. The castings tend to soak up oil over time and make for difficult welding. Can be done, but has to be a patient and knowledgeable welder.
 
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