Need Recommendation for where to get a small outboard serviced

[whfh99]

I live in Gilford and have a 1965 6HP Johnson that needs some servicing. I am looking for a recommendation for an affordable, skilled service shop. I am hoping that someone has first hand experience with small repair shop in the lakes region that is reasonable in price. I would expect the larger marinas, on the water, will still charge the $120+/hr labor rate, regardless of the work and would really like to find a small, hole in wall shop where the work is just as good but the overhead isn't built in to the price. My engine doesn't seem to want to fire on both cylinders and needs some tuning by someone with more outboard experience then me. Know anyone?

Thanks in advance.

Link

[fatlazyless]

Bill......418-4113.....after 6....down in Exeter

[BroadHopper]

He deals with all outboards. Antiques too!

[Acres per Second]

"...My engine doesn't seem to want to fire on both cylinders and needs some tuning by someone with more outboard experience than me. Know anyone...?"
First, I'd check that your spark plug connectors may not be firmly pushed onto the spark plugs.

Regardless of "outboard experience" you're gonna get charged for two new spark plugs. :rolleye1: Before hefting that motor into the car, install two new spark plugs—drain the fuel line—then fill the tank with fresh gasoline.

You might surprise yourself with your new-found "tuning" ability! :)

[VitaBene]

He deals with all outboards. Antiques too!

I second BH's suggestion- Dave's has a good reputation.

APS, Agreed on the plugs though they may change them all over again! The carb (s) likely need to be cleaned as well.

[fatlazyless]

The Napa Auto Store should have a $19.50 parts cleaner kit good for small engine carburetors. It is basically a one gallon steel paint can, 3/4 full with carburetor cleaner, and a round steel perforated cleaner tray with a handle designed for dunking the dirty part. It requires removing the carburetor from the engine and placing into the one gal paint can for about a two minute soak.

Anyone ever use one of these on a small engine carburetor like on a small outboard motor, wood chipper or leaf vacuum-shredder? How's that work out ok?

[robmac]

I have and do use the carb hot tank solution to clean a variety of parts with great success. I would however caution against simply taking the carb off and dunking it. It probably will need to be taken apart cleaned inspected and any gaskets etc. replaced.

[gtxrider]

I would got to see Dave as well. 1965 Outboards are kind of simple but if you are not sure take it to a mechanic. You can't buy a new one for what it will cost to repair

[ishoot308]

Another vote for Dave's!

[Grady223]

Highly recommend Dave's.

[ski emt]

I agree that Dave's is the one

[cowisl]

Dave Rossetti 603 393 5658

[SAMIAM]

1965?? maybe it's worth something at the outboard museum........

[fatlazyless]

Dave Rossetti 603 393 5658

...yeah...believe that Dave R of Moultonboro (or Tuftonboro ?) is a certified Evinrude-Johnson technician, and they don't even let you take the test for that until you have ten years of experience...plus Dave is a big fan of the loop-charged OMC outboard two-strokes....plus he probably will appreciate the business a lot more than the Dave's in Gilford....plus he's probably a lot lower in price than one of those high priced Gilford marinas...

[Acres per Second]

1965?? maybe it's worth something at the outboard museum........
You'd be surprised at how many of these old engines are still powering sailboats—even on the ocean. There's four of us (all friends) who own and operate 6HP Johnson/Evinrude outboards from the 60s and 70s: without misadventure, they're indestructible. :cool:

I would got to see Dave as well. 1965 Outboards are kind of simple but if you are not sure take it to a mechanic. You can't buy a new one for what it will cost to repair
Ain't that the truth!

This carb is very simple, and while there are obvious plastic parts to remove for dunking, there are no gaskets to be found.

My BIL once broke off the idle jet in my 70s 6HP Johnson. In a desperate attempt to fix it, I removed the carburetor. (Which is a difficult operation in itself—having to bend a wrench pretzel-like to fit it).

I re-drilled the port from the back side, and sealed that drilling with a pop rivet. Newly found was an extremely fast top speed, but the idle was still AOL. :(

The Johnson was replaced satisfactorily with another just like it. It's now stored as an "organ donor" should any of us need any other parts.

So far, so good. :)