Evinrude Electric ShiftWater Pump

[Joe Ferreira]

" I have a 1972 50 hp evinrude

" I have a 1972 50 hp evinrude which runs great (my first boat). I want to ensure that it runs well for the next few years. Besides ensuring the Type C oil is used and the gearcase is full at all times, what other precautions should I take? Can I check the gear oil with the boat in the water?
Also, I am very paranoid about water pump failure. How do I know that the water pump should be replaced? Do I have to wait for the hot alarm to go off? Or should I just replace it during the inspection? "

 

[joereeves]

"Joe.... No, you can not check

"Joe.... No, you can not check the lower unit lube with the boat in the water. If you use the boat on a weekend basis, all year long, I'd suggest that you change the water pump, or at least dismantle and inspect it every two (2) years. Pertaining to the alarm... that will come on long before the engine has reached a point whereas damage would occur. And keep in mind that you will at some point or another pick up a plastic bag that some moron has thrown overboard. When that happens, of course the warning horn will sound off, but when you tip the engine, the plastic bag falls off. Sooooooo if the horn comes on, but the engine runs fine the rest of the day at any speed, keep the plastic bag thing in mind.

I suggest this... With the ignition key in the on position (not running), check the warning horn for proper operation before launching. At the cylinder head, you'll see a tan wire protruding from it. Approx 2" from the head, that tan wire has a rubber boot insulator. Slide that boot back and you'll expose a metal knife connector. Ground that knife connector. If the horn is operatable, that completes the circuit and the horn will sound off. If it doesn't, find out why as that is the only overheat warning you have.

Joe

"