1987 90 hp Evinrude Outboard Manual

The 1987 90 hp Evinrude Outboard is a V4 two-stroke marine engine featuring loop charging, 90° cylinder bank, cross-flow scavenging, thermostatically controlled cooling, capacitor discharge ignition, and built-in fuel pump. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Fuel System 8. Electrical System 9. Cooling System 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: V4 cylinder configuration, 90 horsepower rating, CD ignition system, built-in fuel pump, thermostatic cooling, power trim/tilt.

FeatureDescription
Engine TypeV4 two-stroke outboard
Displacement99.6 cubic inches (1.6L)
Bore x Stroke3.50" x 2.60"
Ignition SystemCapacitor Discharge (CD)
Fuel SystemBuilt-in mechanical fuel pump
Cooling SystemThermostatically controlled water pump
Gear Ratio14:27 (1.93:1)
Starting SystemElectric start with alternator
WeightApproximately 295 lbs
Full Throttle RPM4500-5500 RPM

Installation

Proper installation ensures optimal performance and safety.

  1. Mounting: Select appropriate transom height; use marine-grade mounting hardware.
  2. Steering: Connect steering system according to boat manufacturer specifications.
  3. Electrical: Connect battery with proper polarity; install 50-amp fuse in positive cable.
  4. Fuel System: Install fuel line with quick-connect fittings; prime system.
  5. Control Cables: Connect throttle and shift cables with proper adjustment.

WARNING! Engine is heavy; use proper lifting equipment. Ensure transom can support engine weight.

First-Time Setup

Initial setup procedures for new installation.

  1. Fuel Mix: Use 50:1 fuel/oil ratio with TC-W3 certified outboard oil.
  2. Priming: Squeeze fuel primer bulb until firm.
  3. Battery: Connect fully charged 12V marine battery.
  4. Water Supply: Connect flush device or lower engine into water.
  5. Initial Start: Advance throttle to start position; turn key to start.
  6. Break-in: Follow break-in procedure for first 10 hours of operation.

CAUTION! Never run engine without water supply to impeller. Follow break-in procedure exactly.

Specifications

Controls and Operation

Control panel features: Key switch, choke, trim/tilt switch, throttle/shift control.

Starting Procedure: Ensure gear in neutral, advance throttle to start position, turn key while pushing in for choke if cold.

Operation: Allow engine to warm up at idle. Monitor temperature and oil injection. Use trim/tilt for optimal boat performance.

Shutdown: Return to idle speed, turn key to off position. Allow engine to cool before covering.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures long engine life and reliable operation.

IntervalService Required
Every 100 hoursChange gear lube, inspect spark plugs
Every 200 hoursReplace water pump impeller
AnnualFuel filter replacement, corrosion inspection
Every 2 yearsThermostat replacement
As neededPropeller inspection, anode replacement

Fuel System

Built-in mechanical fuel pump with carburetor system.

  1. Fuel Requirements: 87 octane gasoline with TC-W3 outboard oil at 50:1 ratio
  2. Fuel Pump: Mechanical diaphragm type - inspect annually
  3. Carburetors: Four fixed-jet carburetors - synchronize annually
  4. Fuel Filter: Replace annually or when contaminated
  5. Primer System: Manual primer bulb for initial fuel delivery

WARNING! Use only approved marine fuels. Never use automotive oil in fuel mixture.

Electrical System

12V DC system with CD ignition and 16 amp alternator.

Cooling System

Water pump cooling with thermostatic control.

  1. Water Pump: Rubber impeller type - replace every 200 hours
  2. Thermostat: Opens at 143°F (62°C) - test annually
  3. Tell-tale: Water stream indicator for cooling verification
  4. Overheat Protection: Audio warning horn activates at 203°F (95°C)

CAUTION! Always check for water discharge from tell-tale. Never run engine without water supply.

Regulatory Information

EPA certified for marine use. Manufactured by Outboard Marine Corporation. Meets US Coast Guard requirements for marine engines. For technical support, contact Evinrude Customer Service at 1-800-334-6542 or visit authorized Evinrude dealerships.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startFuel, spark, or compressionCheck fuel delivery, spark plugs, compression test
OverheatingWater pump, thermostatReplace water pump impeller, test thermostat
Poor performanceFuel system, ignitionClean carburetors, check spark plugs and timing
No sparkIgnition componentsTest power pack, stator, trigger assembly
Hard startingChoke system, fuel deliveryCheck choke operation, fuel pump, primer bulb

Service: Contact authorized Evinrude dealer for major repairs. Technical support: 1-800-334-6542

1987 90 hp Evinrude Outboard Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025