1984 40hp Evinrude overheated, what all should I check and do?

[mn808gade]

been a o/b mechanic over 50 yrs.can only remember 2-3 motors that had a broke factory reed ,cept a few older mercs(older than 70s').most reed probs started from a bad gasket/bleed hose/timing problem-that made engine backfire,and that made reed break.just doesn't happen often.DO NOT OVER OIL. rings work best at correct mix for rpm range recomemended.good oil and old motors need to be decarboned regular.-th

[powerabout]

We forgot the important one
Dont let ethanol fuel sit in it.
Avoid it if you can

[olboatman]

We forgot the important one
Dont let ethanol fuel sit in it.
Avoid it if you can

This could be the most important advise for stoppin long term problems! Gary

[thornl01]

ATT: Sparkieboat

These little motors like to run free, don't lug it. Be sure to COMPLETELY disassemble carbs for cleaning.

PS Parts are in Beaufort

[Sparkieboat]

I do so hate ethanol...I will prop it for around 5800 RPMs.
And thanks a bunch Thornton, please tell your son to text or call me, I can come by almost anyday this week and pick them up from him.

[flabum1017]

the motor is rated at 5000 rpm...... stock...... they can turn more but you will be dropping ponies with more r's without some mods..........

[flabum1017]

been a o/b mechanic over 50 yrs.can only remember 2-3 motors that had a broke factory reed ,cept a few older mercs(older than 70s').most reed probs started from a bad gasket/bleed hose/timing problem-that made engine backfire,and that made reed break.just doesn't happen often.DO NOT OVER OIL. rings work best at correct mix for rpm range recomemended.good oil and old motors need to be decarboned regular.-th

I worked for Paigo Brothers in Miami back in the '80's and '90's.... #1 Evinrude dealer in the US..... seen many loopers break reeds, they sneeze and break the reed......

[Sparkieboat]

thanks Flabum, I will prop for 5K RPMs then. I am unkowledgeable on anything smaller than a V-4.

[capnzee]

The older OMC's were known for sneezing back through the carbs but I never lost a reed because of it. Usually the reason for the "sneeze" was an idle jet slightly on the lean side. Simply richening the idle jet by cutting the air back slightly would put the carb on the "fat" side and the "sneezing" would stop however the idle would not be as smooth. All of the "help" you are getting, Sparkieboat, must have you wondering "what in the hell did I buy into". Keep it simple, put the head back on, torque it down and see if the engine will start. If it does, add water and run the thing (either in a barrel or with earmuffs). All the engine takes to run is fuel, spark, and air. You already have one of these, check the other two and let'r rip!

[Sparkieboat]

thanks to everyone, I always learn something from almost every post.