VP 2003 Decompression lever

[Appleyard]

The manual for this engine shows a decompression lever ,situated on the valve cover. Is there any reason why mine does not have one? ...The cover has a blanking plate where the lever should be. I only noticed recently when checking the valve clearances.

 

[1955patric]

The decompression lever is fitted so that you can hand start the engine using a starting handle. I have found on my 2002 ( fitted with a decompression lever and starting handle) that it is almost impossible to build up enough inertia given the restricted space and the size of the flywheel to get it to start this way. I assume that with the extra cylinder even VP were not optimistic enough to expect anyone to be able to hand start the beast so decided to omit it.

 

[Appleyard]

Thanks for that...From what you say then ,is it omitted from all of the 2003 range?

 

[VicS]

I think you may find that it was omitted from certain engine numbers onwards

SN2300059107 and SN2300059085 seawater cooled

That is my interpretation of the parts lists anyway

 

[Gubbo]

Vic's theory seems to make sense. My 2003 has got the decompression lever but it's an old engine, circa 1981.
No starting dog or handle so perhaps of limited use, save for a posibility of getting the engine turning over fast enough on the starter with duff batteries.
Don't want to test that one in anger though.

I was able to start a yanmar 1GM10 with a handle but never managed it with a two cylinder 2QM15. Therefore I'm happy to accept that the 3 cylinder lump definately requires the assistance of the magic of electricity. /forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif