1969 Johnson 50hp sitting 5 years

[Megolfish]

I have just bought a boat with a 1969 50hp Johnson outboard that has been sitting for 5 years. It was running fine before. What should I do before I try to start it?

 

[racerone]

Replace the water pump impeller !-----------Check lower unit for water.-----------Water in these electric shift units is a NO,NO.---------Verify that carburetors are absolutely clean.

 

[Megolfish]

Thanks!

 

[martino1]

Plugs out, liquid wrench in each cylinder, rotate flywheel by hand (run direction only). Make sure you don't feel any binding or other issues before you try and start it. Next remove each carb, completely dissassemble and clean, and install new gasket kits. Your fuel pump and lines may also leak, so after it starts keep an eye on them. If the fuel is also 5 years old, you will want to dispose of that too. New fuel line and primer bulb are also good investments.