1976 Evinrude 70HP won't idle in gear

Repair or modification of Boston Whaler boats, their engines, trailers, and gear
siugoalie78
Posts: 2
Joined: Mon May 09, 2022 11:57 am

1976 Evinrude 70HP won't idle in gear

Postby siugoalie78 » Mon Jun 06, 2022 10:20 am

I recently purchased a 1967 Currituck with a 1976 Evinrude 70HP. The motor starts up just fine, and runs fine when i give it gas. However, it will not idle in gear. It idles around 1K RPM, and as soon as i put it in forward, it drops down to about 500, then dies. If i set the idle lever to about 2200, then put it in gear, it drops down to about 1000, and keeps running. But, it seems like that is probably too fast around the docks. The previous owner had just put new carbs and plugs in it, and had it checked out by a mechanic, who gave it a good bill of health. I would definitely appreciate any advice on this idling concern. Thanks!