Maintenance of my 1984-5 Mercury 18XD??

[Bend_Fishin']

I have my first boat, and first motors: a Mercury 18XD (1984-5) which ran two years ago when I got the boat, and a 2.2 Mercury which I've never had running yet (unsure if it's okay). Things went very south financially, etc. since then, but now I'm getting the boat and motors ready for the spring. I admit upfront I didn't do anything with either motor since I got them.

Where should I start with getting these motors ready? I figure drain out the old gas, somehow flush out the carbs, change oil... etc.

Any good sites for general maintenance of older outboards? I need some help. I can't afford to buy an owners manual for the motors right now, but hopefully will soon. Thanks!

[Lou]

I have one of those! It's hanging on a rack in my barn.
I gave up on it, as the arm that controls the idle, wore out.
I was told there was not a replacement. Bought an 8 Merc
and it does the job. Good luck on getting it going.
Just flush the carbs and clean up, change the plugs
and lube the joints. They are bullets until parts
link the controll arms wear out.:)

[Bend_Fishin']

I have one of those! It's hanging on a rack in my barn.
I gave up on it, as the arm that controls the idle, wore out.
I was told there was not a replacement. Bought an 8 Merc
and it does the job. Good luck on getting it going.
Just flush the carbs and clean up, change the plugs
and lube the joints. They are bullets until parts
link the controll arms wear out.:)

I'll do as you suggested, and thanks for the input. I don't know what the weather's like there but it's slated to be downright cold for next few days in Bend. If mine ends up needing parts I'll keep you in mind for your one in the barn! :D