Suzuki DT40 new owner

[jafa]

Hi Gents<br />I have just become the pround owner of a very third hand 15ft alloy boat with a 40Hp Suzuki DT40 on the back circa 1991(my first boat). The owners manual for the motor went a long time ago and I'm trying to find out a few details about the motor operation. i've got the Clymer manual but it doesn't tell me what I want to know so heres a few qestions. <br /><br />The remote unit fires an electric choke solenoid which kicks in when i press the ignition switch in and a manual choke lever behind. How long should you operate the choke solenoid after starting.<br /><br />There is no power trim on the motor only a power tilt. There is a bar that goes accross the transom mount which you can re-position as the tilt back stop giving varying levels of trim. There are 6 poss positions , the first have blanking plates which have never been removed, lugs in the second posion, these have wear marks, the removeable bar is in the third and above are three empty holes. How do select the correct trim prior to going out.<br /><br />The prop has had a few whacks , i gave it one on my first day , Its an aluminium prop and the edges are a rough but nothing major is missing. Can i take a file to it and smooth it or is a pro job or just not worth worrying over.<br /><br />Thanks<br />Andy

 

[jim dozier]

Re: Suzuki DT40 new owner

The electric choke solenoid closes the choke butterfy when actuated. Hold the key in until it cranks when its cold and then let go. If the engine starts to stumble, bump the choke a couple of times, but you probably won't want to or need to hold it in, the engine needs air to run and the choke cuts it off. You shouldn't need the choke on a properly running warm engine. Don't forget to pump the fuel bulb till its firm before starting the engine.<br /><br />As a starting point, set the tilt bar on the engine so that the cavitation plate is parallel to the bottom of the boat. If necessary because of loads or other unforseen things you can alter it up or down 1 setting from there. Engine closer to the transom (down one) will push the stern up and the bow down, farther from the transom (up one) will push the stern down and the bow up. Experiment, you can also move stuff in the boat around (like your fat buddy) for proper balance.<br /><br />Take the prop to a professional and have it rebuilt, it doesn't cost much. In the interim you can file or tap dings flat but be careful, you don't want to change the shape of the prop, leave that to a pro.

 

[jafa]

Re: Suzuki DT40 new owner

Thanks, do you have any idea of what prop shipped with the unit as standard. I have looked all over , havn't taken it off and I cant find a part number. I think its a bit underproped as I could go well past 5500 rpm with two adults a tank of gas and all our fishing gear.

 

[jim dozier]

Re: Suzuki DT40 new owner

No on the prop, but on my Suzuki DT85 you have to remove the prop to see the pitch and diameter stamped into the prop (on the forward edge of the hub which is covered when installed).

 

[chris in va]

Re: Suzuki DT40 new owner

That's a good little motor you have there. My last bass boat had a DT75 and it was completely reliable and had good power. Very well made unit.

 

[jafa]

Re: Suzuki DT40 new owner

Hi All<br />Well my slightly ragged prop became even more ragged when s**t for brains here looks at the fishfinder and says "That cant be right, it says were in two feet of water" short pause ....crunch, cruch , stern pops up.<br />So now its time for a prop rebuild and the shaft is about 3mm out. Is this a fatal problem for the seals or will it hold out a couple of trips more till the season here ends and the weather turns. PS I'm in Auckland , New Zealand and its Autumn now.

 

[merc350]

Re: Suzuki DT40 new owner

i think your in trouble cuzzie bro... i have a dt40 also, third hand, and i also have nicks and bumps in my prop, looking for a new one... shaft out??? ahhhggghhh get it fixed, and dont chance it!