1988 Evinrude 140 HP Manual

The 1988 Evinrude 140 HP is a V4 outboard motor featuring loop-charged combustion system, 90-degree V-block design, 122.9 cubic inch displacement, 140 horsepower at 5000 RPM, 2.0:1 gear ratio, 15-amp alternator, thermostatically controlled cooling, oil injection system, power trim and tilt, CD ignition system, and single-lever remote control. Below are key sections for safety, specifications, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and service procedures.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Fuel System 7. Electrical System 9. Maintenance Schedule 10. Storage Procedures 11. Regulatory Information 12. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: V4 powerhead, CD ignition, oil injection system, power trim/tilt, single-lever remote control, thermostatic cooling.

FeatureDescription
Powerhead122.9 cu in V4 loop-charged design
Ignition SystemCD electronic ignition with power pack
Fuel SystemDual carburetors with VRO oil injection
Cooling SystemThermostatically controlled water pump
Gearcase2.0:1 gear ratio with shock-absorbing hub
Electrical15-amp alternator with voltage regulator
Trim/TiltPower trim and tilt with manual override
ControlsSingle-lever remote control with safety lanyard
Propeller13.25" x 17" standard aluminum prop
Weight319 lbs (145 kg) without propeller

Installation

Proper installation ensures optimal performance and safety.

  1. Select transom: Ensure transom height matches motor specifications (20" standard).
  2. Mount motor: Use appropriate mounting bolts and transom plate.
  3. Connect steering: Attach steering cable or hydraulic system.
  4. Connect controls: Install single-lever remote control box.
  5. Connect fuel system: Attach fuel line with quick-connect fitting.
  6. Connect battery: Use marine-grade battery with proper cables.

WARNING! Motor is heavy; use lifting eye and proper equipment. Ensure all connections are secure.

First-Time Setup

Initial setup procedures for new installation.

  1. Prime fuel system: Squeeze primer bulb until firm.
  2. Check oil injection: Ensure VRO tank is filled with TC-W3 oil.
  3. Set throttle: Adjust neutral throttle position.
  4. Test trim/tilt: Verify proper operation of power trim system.
  5. Check water pump: Start motor and verify water discharge.
  6. Break-in procedure: Follow recommended break-in schedule.

CAUTION! Always test in water with proper ventilation. Follow break-in procedures carefully.

Specifications

Controls and Operation

Single-lever remote control operation and basic controls.

Remote Control: Throttle/gear shift combination lever, choke button, tilt switch, emergency stop switch with lanyard.

Starting Procedure: Ensure gear in neutral, attach safety lanyard, push key in to choke (cold start), turn key to start. Warm starting usually requires no choke.

Trim Operation: Use trim switch on control handle or motor to adjust running angle. Tilt switch raises motor completely for trailering.

Fuel System

VRO oil injection system and carburetor operation.

  1. Fuel Requirements: 87 octane minimum gasoline
  2. Oil Requirements: Evinrude/Johnson TC-W3 certified oil
  3. Fuel Mix: VRO system automatically mixes 50:1 ratio
  4. Primer System: Manual primer bulb for initial fuel supply
  5. Carburetors: Dual fixed-jet carburetors with choke system

Tip: Always use fresh fuel and check fuel lines for cracks or leaks regularly.

Electrical System

CD ignition and charging system components.

  1. Ignition System: CD power pack, stator, trigger, ignition coils
  2. Charging System: 15-amp alternator with voltage regulator
  3. Starting System: Electric starter with solenoid
  4. Battery: Minimum 450 MCA marine starting battery
  5. Wiring: Color-coded harness with weatherproof connectors

WARNING! Disconnect battery before servicing electrical components. Use marine-grade components only.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures long engine life.

IntervalService Required
Every useCheck fuel lines, oil level, lower unit oil
100 hours/annuallyChange spark plugs, water pump impeller
200 hoursClean carburetors, check thermostat
300 hoursReplace fuel filters, check timing
500 hoursDecarbonize cylinders, check compression

Storage Procedures

Proper storage prevents damage during off-season.

  1. Fuel System: Add fuel stabilizer and run engine
  2. Fogging: Spray fogging oil into carburetors while running
  3. Lower Unit: Drain and refill gear lube
  4. Battery: Remove and store fully charged
  5. External: Clean and wax exterior surfaces

CAUTION! Store in dry location with motor in vertical position.

Regulatory Information

EPA certified for marine use. Manufactured by Outboard Marine Corporation. Evinrude is a registered trademark of OMC. For technical support and parts, contact authorized Evinrude dealers or OMC Customer Service. This manual covers model E140TLCCA manufactured for 1988 model year.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startFuel, spark, or compressionCheck fuel supply, spark plugs, compression
Poor performanceFuel restriction, fouled plugsCheck fuel filters, replace spark plugs
OverheatingWater pump, thermostatReplace water pump impeller, check thermostat
No oil injectionVRO pump, oil tankCheck oil tank level, VRO pump operation
Electrical failureBattery, connectionsTest battery, check all electrical connections

Service: Contact authorized Evinrude dealer for major repairs. Technical service bulletins available from OMC.

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