Yamaha 40hp pull start problems

[Hdizz]

Hi there,

I am trying to pull start a 40hp 1992 Yamaha self mixing outboard engine.

When I pull the cord it is extremely hard and there is no way to pull it fast enough (or much at all) to start the engine. Worried there was a problem with seizing I removed the spark plugs and pulled the cord, it turned over nice and smoothly and nothing came out of the holes apart from a lot of air.

I am wondering if anyone had any advice in this situation? It seems as if I am missing something obvious, maybe something that could release pressure build up...

Thanks in advance for any advice.

 

[rob2]

The gearing of the pull start on these engines is fairly high , so it shouldn't require too much effort. IIRC they are usually fitted with a neutral start mechanism (I don't know how it works) so unless the gear selector is in neutral, or the throttle lever pulled out to disengage, then it should lock up. Perhaps the clutch or whatever that should be preventing the pull start from moving is slipping?

Rob.

 

[VicS]

40 Hp is a fairly large outboard to be starting by hand. Once you get to that size most people would have opted for an electric start I would have thought.

Variously outboards, apart from the smallest, are fitted with either a system to prevent starting in gear or above a certain throttle opening. Maybe both, I dont know, but if it can be spun over easily with the plugs removed that is not the problem, purely the compression.

I dont know what gearing Rob is looking at. The diagram I am looking at shows a straight pull on a top mounted starter . No gearing

 

[rotrax]

Having owned a couple of these I can confirm you will need to be strong and in good shape. The engine needs to be the latter as well.

It is technique -you will get that in time.

I never had too much trouble- last Sunday I started my mates Speedway JAP 500 cc Methanol burner by pulling the back wheel..................