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I've got an Evinrude 30HP in great shape - model e30rleud, the mfg plate says 1996 but all references I've seen have this model number as a 1997. Anyway, it's a pull start and as I'm redoing my 13' Whaler including the addition of a console, I'll be switching it over to a NFB steering system. I'm wondering if anyone knows what - if even possible - I need to add an electric starter to this motor so I can start it from the console, or is it destined to be pull-start only?
Also, mixing fuel and oil bugs me a bit - I'm always concerned the oil isn't going to mix fully so my ratios will be inconsistent - I could fill it up at a marine pump with premix but that's always a bit more pricey... is it possible/advisable to add a separate oil tank and pump to provide the mix just in time?
Finally, what about a water separator for the fuel line? Is this useful, or just overkill?
I run in salt water around Southern California and have been doing all the basic maintenance on schedule, but as I restore the boat am wanting to update my trusty 30hp as much as practical as I don't expect to replace it for some years - maybe never, I'm not a speed demon, and it's got plenty of push for my needs.
Got the same Ev 30 on my '69 13 sport but it is about 10 years older. Is equiped with electric start not pull. Although I often wish I had the extra 10 horses, I am amazed at how well it is sized to the boat. Did an extensive rebuild after an overheating issue and she has run like a champ for the last three years.
I drop her in Alamitos Bay all the time for booze cruises through the canals but always take several speed laps around the ski course at Marine Stadium. The old popper can just barely get four adults and two kids on the step but I am always looking for a ski boat to zoom by for an assist....By positioning myself to surf off his wake I can pick up a few more hundred RPMs and better speed which the engine can hold higher on the power band once it winds up...WOT of course. My plan is to shave down the existing stock prop just a bit for heavy loads and the mountains and get a slightly pitchier one for sea level with lighter loads. Motor has plenty of power and can handle the load ( currently winds out) with only 2-3 aboard
We use her up at Big Bear all the time too at about 6000' Elev and she can still get 2+2 on the step at WOT and even drag one of the kids on a tube.
As far as your questions...You will need to check with your mechanic regarding electric start...I'll bet it can be done. I really like and trust Min Mar on Anaheim in Long Beach. They did my rebuild and got my engine back essentially looking and runninng like brand new!
I prefer the pre-mix...and frankly on an older engine, would abandon a seperate oil system if it had one. It ain't broke so why bother trying to fix it. If you run out of oil before the gas you are skroood. Just make sure that you have some gas in the tank first before you pour in the oil...when you top off with gas it will mix much easier as it fills. If you simply pour the oil in after you fill with gas it will drop to the bottom and require shaking to mix reliably
I do have a big filter / seperator and most on this forum say why bother but it is great insurance.
When I replace my side consol steering I upgraded to the NFB with the angled set-up. The cable length is a headache. Can't remember the length I required but one was much too long and the foot shorter just barely fit but very clean..takes some patience.
Have fun with your boat...she is a winner as equipped!
Thanks Blake - sounds like we're nearly neighbors... I launch from Davies every chance I get and know that routine well - we always sneak into Marine Stadium for a few laps when Harbor Patrol isn't around Then we usually do a few hours around the canals, and often a quick fun run out in the harbor if the weather is nice.
I'll try Min Mar - I've gotten several recommendations for them...
Thanks for the advice on the oil mixer - it sounds unnecessary, even possibly risky, compared with the tried-and-true (but decidedly low-tech) manual mixing.
Harbor patrol is no sweat at Marine Stadium...only after dark for high speed runs. I think we can keep our little 13s under 35 MPH!
I failed to mention that I added a fin to my engine plate ( SE Sport 200...Min Mar has in stock) and it made a world of difference. The only mod that I wish I had done during refit is moving the console/benches forward 4-6". My batt and fuel is in the rear and as such the nose is very light. Boat has a much gentler ride with some weight in the nose and with only two aboard the passenger sitting on the forward bench.
I put the Whale Tail on mine and love it so far, but I've only had it out once since I installed... maybe it's just delusion, but I did feel like the boat was a lot more stable and it definitely got up on plane a lot faster... top speed didn't seem to lose much.
Then we usually do a few hours around the canals, and often a quick fun run out in the harbor if the weather is nice.
