How to Adjust the Idle on an Evinrude

Explore America's Campgrounds

Adjusting the idle on an Evinrude outboard motor helps to increase the motor's efficiency. This is particularly important if you use your motor as a trolling motor in addition to a main source of propulsion. Just like any of the other small maintenance chores, you can adjust the idle yourself with a minimum of fuss and tools.

Items you will need

  • 3/8-inch open-end wrench

  • Standard slotted screwdriver

Loosen the idle speed screw's lock nut with a 3/8-inch open-end wrench.

Turn the idle speed screw with a standard slotted screwdriver until the tachometer indicates the idle speed is between 800 and 900 RPM.

Tighten the idle speed screw lock nut.

Gone Outdoors