1998 Evinrude 50hp Outboard Engine

Evinrude has a long history of manufacturing outboard motors for boats. Founded in 1907 by Ole Evinrude following development of the first practical outboard motor in 1909. Evinrude’s outboard motors were an immediate success and were widely used on small boats. In the following decades, the company continued to innovate and expand its product line. That included introducing new models and technologies that improved the performance and reliability of its outboard motors. This continued all the way through the manufacturing of the 1998 Evinrude 50 hp outboard engine and beyond.

Today, Evinrude is a leading manufacturer of outboard motors for boats. Subsequently, Evinrude is well-known for its commitment to quality and innovation.

Evinrude Acquisition by BRP

Though Evinrude has been a common name in the marine world for decades, it eventually was picked up by larger corporations. BRP acquired Evinrude in 2001 to produce a wide range of outboard motors for boats. However, Evinrude today is no longer an active product line, as the production of outboards was halted in 2020.

Overview

A 1998 Evinrude 50 horsepower outboard motor is a two-stroke engine. To that end, it was designed for use on small to medium-sized boats. It has a displacement of 54.9 cubic inches (906 cc) and a bore x stroke of 3.44 inches x 2.87 inches (87.5 mm x 72.7 mm).

The motor is capable of producing a maximum RPM of 5500-6000. As is common with many outboards, it uses a water-cooling system. There is also a fuel tank capacity of 6.5 gallons. The accompanying lubrication system is also a premix oil, and the ignition system is CDI. The exhaust system is ported out through propellor as part of the cooling system. Overall, the motor has a shaft length of 20 inches.

Specifications of the 1998 Evinrude 50 hp outboard

1998 Evinrude 50 hp Outboard Repair Manual
Evinrude 50hp Outboard Repair Manual
  • Engine: 50 HP 2-stroke
  • Displacement: 54.9 cubic inches
  • Maximum RPM: 5500-6000
  • Fuel type: Unleaded gasoline / oil premix
  • Ignition system: CDI
  • Cooling system: Water-cooled
  • Exhaust system: Through prop
  • Shaft length: 20 inches
  • Weight: 256 pounds

Practical Use of the Evinrude 50

In general, a 50 horsepower outboard motor can power boats that are between 16 and 25 feet long. Subsequently, this depends on the design and weight of the boat and the horsepower needed to achieve the desired performance. Some popular models from the era include:

  • Bayliner Capri: A popular runabout boat well-suited for family boating and watersports. It had a length of 19 feet and was available with a variety of power options, including outboard motors.
  • Sea Ray 180 Bow Rider: This was a versatile bow rider boat that was popular for its spacious layout and smooth performance. It had a length of 18 feet and was available with a range of power options, including outboard motors.
  • Four Winns Horizon 190: A popular bow rider boat known for its stylish design and comfortable interior. It had a length of 19 feet and was available with a variety of power options, including outboard motors.

It’s important to note that these are general guidelines and the actual size range of the boat that a 50 horsepower motor can power may vary. You don’t want is to get on the water only to find that your motor is underpowered for your craft. It’s always best to consult with a marine dealer or the manufacturer of the outboard motor to determine the appropriate size range for your specific boating needs.

Medium Size Boats

Replacing a 50hp Evinrude Engine

Sometimes, you just need to replace a 50 horsepower Evinrude outboard motor. In that case, you have a few options.

First, you can always purchase a new motor from a marine dealer. This is generally the most straightforward option, as you can shop for the latest models and choose the features and options that best meet your needs. Most marine dealers typically have a wide selection of outboard motors from various manufacturers, including Evinrude. To that end, they can provide expert advice on the best motor for your specific boating needs.

Another options is to purchase a used motor from a private seller or a marine dealer. This can be a more cost-effective option, as used motors are typically less expensive than new ones. Accordingly, you can find used motors for sale through classified ads, online marketplaces, or at marine dealerships that specialize in used boats and outboard motors. It’s important to carefully inspect the motor and ask about its maintenance history before making a purchase to ensure that you are getting a reliable and well-maintained motor.

One option that people sometimes forget is to rent a motor from a rental company: This is a good option if you only need a motor for a short period of time or if you want to try out different models before making a purchase. Many rental companies offer outboard motors for rent, and they can provide the necessary safety equipment and instruction.

Maintaining a 1998 Evinrude Outboard

Proper maintenance is essential to ensure the reliable performance and long life of any outboard. There are some helpful tips that may help you in maintaining your motor properly.

Schedule

First, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for scheduled maintenance, including oil changes, spark plug replacements, and other service intervals. This is commonly found in the owner’s manual found with the engine.

Fluids

It’s also important to keep the motor clean, both inside and out. Remove any dirt or debris that accumulates on the motor, and flush the cooling system with fresh water after every use to prevent corrosion and build-up of salt or minerals.

Check and replace the fuel filter regularly to ensure that the fuel system is clean and free of contaminants. Also, checking the propeller regularly for damage and wear is vital, and replace it if necessary. A damaged propeller can quickly cause performance problems and affect the handling of the boat.

Another best practice is to keep the engine well-lubricated by using the correct type and amount of oil, as recommended by the manufacturer.

Storage

Finally, store the motor properly when not in use. If the motor is stored for an extended period, it is a good idea to remove the spark plugs and fog the cylinders with oil to prevent corrosion. This also includes proper winterization if your area is frequently exposed to extreme cold.

If there is damage or considerable wear on the engine, a proper repair may be in order. A boat repair manual with the specifications for the exact model is required.

In Closing

By following these maintenance tips, you can help ensure that your Evinrude 50 horsepower outboard motor runs smoothly and reliably for many years to come. It’s always recommended to speak to a local professional about any additional regional considerations, such as salt water, cold temperatures, sediment in water or other factors that could affect your engine over time.