Home › Forum › Ask A Member › 1959 Evinrude 5.5 HP Engine › Re: 1959 Evinrude 5.5 HP Engine
Most of today’s dealer techs have had no experience with these older engines, instead of admitting that, they just condemn the engines saying they are too old and will cost too much to fix. And, with most labor rates over $100/hr, I guess they are right.
But, it sounds like this engine had decent servicing and might not need much to revive it again. Please don’t be afraid of the pressurized fuel tank, they are simple and easy to fix, but you must check your fuel tank to make sure it is not rusted/fouled inside.
The one thing to be careful about with this engine is proper fuel/oil mix. Don’t listen to any well meaning advice about today’s better oils will allow mixing at 50:1! This engine has plain connecting rod bushings that require plenty of lubrication, stick to the original oil mixing instructions.
These are very reliable engines that run much better than any of the expensive engines offered today.