Checking out a Mercury Classic 50 before starting.?
My bud bought a boat with Merc Classic 50 hanging off the back. I believe it’s a mid 80′s motor. There isn’t any manual or other paperwork. I’m going to check it out for him and see if I can get it started this weekend. This motor has sat idle for a year or more. I’m a fair backyard mechanic but my experience is mostly motorcycle engines although I have some experience operating and maintaining smaller two stroke outboards. Any tips or pointers you folks can give me to get me going in the right direction? My biggest concern is making sure I don’t screw anything up through my ignorance.
Thanks.
All that 45 said, plus: remove the spark plugs and spray some Ring-Free or similar product in the cylinders, wait a couple of hours, then rotate the flywheel by hand a few revolutions. This will help remove any corrosion or carbon build-up without damaging the cylinders. Grease all fittings with a lightweight grease. Drain and refill the gearcase oil with Mercury high performance gear oil. (always use new gaskets on the drain and fill plugs) I would also suggest you replace the waterpump impeller before starting the engine.
As far as a “free” manual, there are none. You can buy a Seloc manual at this site, or check with your local library.
http://www.marineengine.com/