You know of an outboard mechanic?: Steelheader.net- Steelhead, Salmon and trout fishing

I have a situation. Nothing too serious, but at the same time it is. See, I inherited an old evenrude 18 horse and a johnson 20 horse. Both of them are very old, don't run, and are props.

Tried to get the 18 to run, but couldn't get it to start after checking gas, using every dang setting on the whole machine, changing spark plugs, using starter fluid, and just about everything else simple. Nothing, nada, zippo. Only a few 1 sec starts from working on it for over an hour.

The 20 horse is in pieces as the owner was in the process of changing the engine from prop to jet. I didn't know this was possible, but all the pieces should be laying around somwhere... And I do mean somewhere as in I'd have to seriously look for them-probably. Anyway, I've called around some local shops here and they charge more than $50 just to take a look at it. If repairs need to be made, then that's a lot of money down the drain.

My question for people on this board is if you or anyone you know has experience with old outboard motors, and doesn't mind taking a look at them. Any old timers still hanging around that love to work with engines? Not necessarily registered with this board or even have a computer? I'd be willing to negotiate on payment... Beer, fishing, money?

Now we all know that peak steelhead season is a few weeks away... I'd like to try to use these things at least once! Anyway, I can't afford a shop, let alone a new motor, so it seems that this is my last resort.

Any takers, or anyone that can atleast guide me in the right direction?

Thanks,
Matt