Cheap find! Pics!

[Tonka329]

Found this in town, got it for $200! I guess the guy replaced a bearing and seal, now it will not run...Been sitting for 2 years but motor is not locked up. Still turns over but, not too much compression. My question is, what year is this old one? Need some carb parts I believe. Anyone have an idea on what year this? no plastic body peices. Serial number is: 9E23-172660. Found it located under the passeger side "glove box." All info is appreciated!!

Tonka

[BrewCityMusic]

That's a first-generation Marathon, with the internal starter/generator (Dave Box can correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe that makes it pre-81) - those old serial numbers aren't like the new ones with the year right in the number though so I can't pin it down exactly for you ...

[pachanga90]

Yep,I think 81' was the first update.The cart pictured has the rear-mount fuel-tank,definitely late 70s'-early 80s'.Good score

[Tonka329]

Thanks guys! Anyone know where I can get parts?

[pachanga90]

Some of the engine stuff is getting tough on the early motors,the starter/gen.stuff is almost extinct.It can be converted to an external,but you will need to build brackets,they have a different engine-case,the ears aren't there to mount one.I think the main parts of the motor are the same,but not definite(If I talk to Dad,I'll check,hes' done a few of them).The cart itself is basically the same all the way thru 94',so that stuff is easy.The only differences are they changed the seat-back brackets,gas-tank location(from behind seat to under-seat),and the front-cowl and front-springs were changed in 88'-94'(springs are 2"-shorter).Enjoy!Hope this helps.

[Tonka329]

Anyone do a "clone" engine swap on these side mount style engines?

[BrewCityMusic]

The drawback to a swap is that your existing engine actually runs backwards to give you a reverse gear, if You swap to a standard motor (which isn't impossible at all provided You utilize an engine that the clutch is compatible with) You will also have to swap out the rear axle to a 1989-1994.4 style to give yourself a reverse gear (which can be rather spendy, I've seen those axles go anywhere from $200-700) ...

On the upside, those old internal generator engines (while yes, VERY hard to locate parts for anymore) are still a decent, reliable engine when they're maintained correctly - define "low compression" (IE what's the actual reading, take it with the gas pedal mashed to the floor to ensure an accurate reading BTW)

[mb523]

Congrats on the classic EZGO! This looks just like my 1977! Top end parts for this motor are the same as the newer (80's) Fuji/heavy industries 244cc engine. I believe the only thing you can still get for that starter/generator are the brushes. I rebuilt the top end of mine a couple years ago and it has been a solid performer for years! It looks like you are missing the top muffler bracket which could lead to a cracked muffler pipe. Does it spin over with a good battery in it? Have spark? Pump fuel? If yes, you are well on your way. As BrewCityMusic suggested, do a compression test and let us know.

[Tonka329]

I have been working 16 hour days the past couple weeks. I will be able to dig into it this weekend

[Tonka329]

Well, a rebuild kit for the carb from a local shop, hoaned cylinder, new piston/rings, and this little cart spins the tires on my garage floor!! Not bad for only having less than $300 in it. Now, some cheap upholstering, rattle can paint and this cart will be good to go for the campsite!!