Re: Must-Do Items Before Trying to Start a ’57 ?

[David Stanton]

Do you know when it was last run? If it has been in regular use recently you can probably just connect a gas can and start it. If not, Do what Chris said. If you don’t have a compression gauge, slowly pull the rope until you feel each cylinder go through a compression stroke – if it feels firm and about equal, you don’t need to measure compression. Regardless of if it has been used recently or not, I’d change the lower unit gear oil and look at what does or doesn’t drain out.

Once it starts, look for a strong stream of water coming from that big hole halfway between the powerhead and the water.

After running a few gallons of gas on a boat, I’d drain the gear oil again and look for water in it which will turn it a milky color.

You mentioned fogging – that is done when you are going to store it.

Did you get the starter solenoid box that mounts in the boat and wiring harness with start and choke buttons with it? You can rope start it without this, but will need this stuff to use electric start.

I see the linkage is missing that prevents use of the rope starter if the throttle is up too high – be careful, and be sure it’s in neutral when starting. Having it in gear and the throttle up too high when rope starting is a good way to fall out of the boat.
Dave