Looking for an A4 Mechanic in Kentucky Lake

[JTG1160]

I have a 1960 Tripp 30 with a 30 HP A4. Did a recent successful bench test on it prior to installing back into the boat and looking for help with final hook ups and getting it running smoothly. Located at Green Turtle Bay Marina but don't think they have anybody very familiar with the A4s, any recommendations?

John

[ndutton]

Our experience with professional A4 mechanics has been very poor. Usually you're far better off investing in a Moyer Manual (available on this site) and following the guidance offered on this forum.

[joe_db]

What he said. Most of them will end up making it worse

[capnward]

I'm wondering why you felt the need to remove the engine to test it. Sounds like it was your mechanic's idea. Was it not running? If so, then what was done to make it run? What constitutes a successful bench test?
The best way to learn how to install the engine is to remove it yourself and take notes and photos of each step, (what wires were connected, etc.), then reverse the process. I did it once for a rebuild in 2001. As I recall, the trickiest part was getting the correct shims in place between the engine and the engine mounts, so that the shaft couplings were the same clearance all the way around. It wasn't hard because I made notes which shims were under each corner of the engine when I removed it. Hopefully you or your mechanic did that.
To learn how to get it running smoothly, you have come to the right place. The Moyer Company, the Moyer Manual and this forum will enable you to enjoy many years of trouble-free operation, if you learn about the needs of an A4. I would also suggest that you get the excellent videos available on this site, especially the carburetor video. In my experience, most problems derive from junk in the fuel tank, but fresh filters and non-ethanol fuel help. Fresh water cooling and electronic ignition are essential, IMO.
To me, a big part of the joy of having a boat with an engine is learning how to work on it, doing the work, fixing or preventing the problem, and then going sailing. May your experience be similar to mine. (I hope, better.)

[JTG1160]

Engine had been out of the boat for several seasons so I asked for the bench test which constituted start-up and running at approx. 2000 rpm for approx. 15 min. Not much of a bench test but at least I know it runs. My next step is to remove some very old gas from the tank and clean out the lines and filters. Other recommendations prior to starting it? I was thinking that a rebuild of the carb would be a good idea? Appreciate the tips!

[joe_db]

Who put the engine back in?
Is it wired and plumbed?
Control cables hooked up?
Shaft aligned?
What does the fuel system look like?
What is the tank made of?
What kind of fuel pump?
How old are the hoses?
What kind of exhaust system and how old?
Any photos would help!
I would also think about a temporary tank for testing. Cleaning the carb can never hurt either.

[roadnsky]

Originally Posted by JTG1160

Engine had been out of the boat for several seasons so I asked for the bench test which constituted start-up and running at approx. 2000 rpm for approx. 15 min...

Please tell us that the 2000 RPM was in gear and NOT in neutral for 15 min?