1987 Evinrude 50 HP Outboard Manual

The 1987 Evinrude 50 HP outboard motor is a reliable two-stroke marine engine featuring 50 horsepower output, loop charging system, 3-cylinder configuration, thermostatically controlled cooling, CD ignition system, and built-in fuel pump. This manual covers operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications for proper use and care of your outboard motor.

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. Storage & Winterization 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 3-cylinder two-stroke engine, CD ignition, thermostatic cooling, built-in fuel pump, tiller or remote steering options.

Feature	Description
Engine Type	3-cylinder two-stroke outboard
Horsepower	50 HP at 5000 RPM
Ignition System	CD (Capacitor Discharge)
Fuel System	Built-in fuel pump with carburetors
Cooling System	Thermostatically controlled water pump
Gear Ratio	1.85:1
Starting System	Electric start with manual backup
Weight	Approximately 185 lbs (84 kg)
Steering	Tiller handle or remote control
Propeller	Standard 3-blade aluminum

Installation

Proper installation ensures optimal performance and safety.

Mounting: Use appropriate transom bracket; ensure transom can support motor weight.
Steering connection: Install steering cable for remote models; check tiller handle for manual models.
Fuel system: Connect fuel line with quick-connect fitting; prime system.
Electrical: Connect battery cables (red to positive, black to negative).
Control box: Install for remote models; test throttle and shift functions.

WARNING! Ensure proper transom strength; use correct mounting bolts and hardware.

First-Time Setup

Initial setup procedures for new installation.

Fuel mixture: Use 50:1 fuel/oil ratio (87 octane gasoline with TC-W3 outboard oil).
Battery: Install fully charged 12V marine battery (minimum 450 CCA).
Water connection: Attach flush port or install in test tank/water.
Initial start: Prime fuel system, set choke, turn key to start position.
Break-in period: Follow break-in procedure for first 10 hours of operation.

CAUTION! Always run in water or with proper flushing attachment; never run dry.

Specifications

Displacement: 49.7 cubic inches (815 cc)
Bore x Stroke: 2.87 x 2.50 inches (73 x 63.5 mm)
Full Throttle RPM: 4500-5500 RPM
Fuel Capacity: External tank (6 gallon standard)
Oil Capacity: Pre-mix in fuel tank
Spark Plug: Champion QL77JC4 or equivalent
Gap: 0.030 inches (0.76 mm)
Alternator Output: 9 amp @ 5000 RPM
Shift Pattern: F-N-R (Forward-Neutral-Reverse)
Exhaust: Through propeller hub

Controls and Operation

Standard controls: Key switch, choke, throttle, shift lever, tilt lock/release.

Tiller Model: Handle with twist-grip throttle, shift lever, choke button.

Remote Model: Control box with key switch, throttle/shift lever, choke button.

Starting Procedure: Turn key to ON, push choke (cold start), turn to START. Warm engine may not need choke. Shifting: Always shift at idle speed; pause in neutral between forward and reverse.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures long engine life and reliability.

Interval	Service Required
Each Use	Check fuel system for leaks, inspect propeller
20 Hours/Monthly	Check spark plugs, inspect fuel filter
100 Hours/Season	Change gear lube, check water pump
300 Hours/Yearly	Replace water pump impeller, check thermostat
As Needed	Clean carburetors, check ignition timing

Fuel System

Three-carburetor system with built-in fuel pump.

Fuel mixture: Always use 50:1 ratio of gasoline to TC-W3 outboard oil.
Fuel filter: Located between fuel pump and carburetors; replace annually.
Carburetor adjustment: Idle mixture screws factory set; minor adjustments only.
Fuel pump: Diaphragm type; inspect for leaks or deterioration.
Fuel lines: Check for cracks or hardening; replace every 5 years.

Tip: Use fresh fuel; ethanol blends may require stabilizer.

Electrical System

12V CD ignition with 9 amp charging system.

Battery: Maintain clean connections; keep fully charged.
Starter: Inspect brushes every 300 hours; check solenoid operation.
Ignition: CD power pack provides spark to all three cylinders.
Charging: 9 amp alternator charges battery during operation.
Kill switch: Safety lanyard stops engine if operator falls overboard.

WARNING! Disconnect battery before servicing electrical components.

Cooling System

Water pump and thermostat controlled cooling.

Water pump: Rubber impeller type; replace every 2 years or 300 hours. Thermostat: Opens at 143°F (62°C); ensures proper operating temperature. Tell-tale: Water stream indicates pump operation; check constantly during operation.

CAUTION! Never run engine without water supply; impeller damage will occur.

Storage & Winterization

Proper storage prevents damage during off-season.

Fuel system: Add fuel stabilizer; run engine to distribute through system.
Drain: Remove drain plugs from gear case; inspect for water contamination.
Fogging: Spray fogging oil into carburetors while running to coat cylinders.
Battery: Remove and store fully charged in cool, dry location.
External: Cover motor; store upright in dry location.

CAUTION! Always fog engine before storage to prevent cylinder corrosion.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Fuel, spark, or compression	Check fuel supply, spark plugs, compression test
Poor performance	Fuel restriction, fouled plugs	Clean fuel filter, replace spark plugs
Overheating	Water pump, thermostat	Check tell-tale stream, replace impeller
No charging	Alternator, rectifier	Test voltage output at battery
Hard shifting	Cable adjustment, gear lube	Adjust shift cable, check gear case oil

Service: Contact authorized Evinrude dealer for major repairs.

Parts: Use genuine Evinrude replacement parts for best performance.