Suzuki outboard squeaked, slowed and stopped

superheat6k

superheat6k

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I have a Suzuki DT15 outboard on my tender.

Yesterday it stopped twice, each time after a good run at moderate power. Sounded sort of clicky / squeaky, slowed then stopped. Wasn't seized, and chucked out loads of steam / exhaust smoke, but was tight to pull over. After drifting for a few minutes whilst I got the oars out, I then re- tried and then ran like there was no problem for the rest of my trip.

Water flow appeared good from the exhaust overflow port and tell tale.

Thought the first time I might have hit a weed patch, but nothing round the prop or leg.

I suspect the thermostat may have jammed or else a salt build up. Thing is I wouldn't expect a partially seized motor to sound so sweet so soon after.

Any one experienced similar with a Suzuki ?

What are the odds the whole power head is coming to bits ?
 
tinkicker0 said:
Sounds like a seizure of the crank to me, likely the cage on the big end or main has collapsed.


Edit....noticed the comment on the steam. Overheat and partial piston seizure.
Click to expand...
I fear you are likely to be right, I suppose I am surprised it sounded so sweet again shortly afterwards after both occasions.

To bits it is then !

Watch this space, as it will be a few weeks before I can fit this in.
 
If its just a skirt seizure which it probably is, find out why it is getting hot, rectify it and run it. I take it you remembered to fill the oil tank or mix the lube oil with the petrol.
A minor skirt seizure is not that big a deal on a 2 stroke as long as the bore and ring area remain undamaged.
 
tinkicker0 said:
If its just a skirt seizure which it probably is, find out why it is getting hot, rectify it and run it. I take it you remembered to fill the oil tank or mix the lube oil with the petrol.
A minor skirt seizure is not that big a deal on a 2 stroke as long as the bore and ring area remain undamaged.
Click to expand...
Yes, but I am not sure the recommended 100:1 ratio is enough. For some reason the manual says 50:1 if used in South Africa.

The overhaul manual I have suggests faulty thermostat, but I reckon the water passages might be salted up, and the top end has simply got too hot. I have an endoscope so hopefully I can inspect the bores though the plug holes.

Thanks for your response Tinkicker.
 
I would use more oil than 100:1, possibly as much as 50:1. AFAIK, the 100:1 thing came about when engine manufacturers were trying to make 2 strokes more enviro friendly. The same engine would often be sold commercially with a 50:1 recommendation.
 
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