Reply To: 1973 6Hp Evinrude Fisherman hard starting cold

[Don]

Like Bill says, yes to all three questions. The timing light should show the same position between the marks regardless of RPM and throttle setting, but there will be a little variation, especially with a worn mag plate. The problem here is that we have no timing grid, or advance specs. Perhaps I will make some markings on a normal 6hp, then compare them to mine. Seems like you are slowly getting this thing dialed in…Two pulls cold start is great, and you realize that the twist grip throttle indications are usually off a bit. Does it still hesitate when you accelerate? Pull the prop off, and read the OMC part number/diameter/pitch….It is possible that someone installed a 8-9″ pitch prop on this engine, which is for the older 10hps…The 6hp would never be able to spin this prop…It will bog and seem to have not top end power…Kinda like trying to accelerate in a VW bug in fourth gear at 20MPH…
And years ago, I probably just would have tossed my 6hp problem child in the back of the shop somewhere and forgot about it……… But, in my advanced age, I have become more stubborn, and will keep at it until I figure it out, or someone else has a look and quickly points out something basic I have overlooked. But, it is good to put it aside for awhile, oftentimes the solutions will come to me late at night in my dreams…