'69 Merc 200 20hp-idle problems

Drindin

Petty Officer 3rd Class
Joined
Oct 21, 2006
Messages
80
I've had a few problems in the past and got advice to pull carb and make sure it was clean, jets clear, etc. I did that. Now here's my(& others)problem: I have to squeeze the bulb to gas tank until I see gas coming out of carb, and then it starts fairly easy. But, to keep it from dying I have to continuously squeeze the bulb, JUST BARELY, like I'm keeping time. As soon as I stop, the motor dies 5-6 seconds later. I'm sure I need to replace the diaphragm; it has small dry-rott area with small hole. I've also replaced fuel lines but see a small amount of gas leaking from the elbow on fuel pump side of hose feeding float bowl. I'm beginning to have more than average problems locating parts too (all "No longer available". Any advice on that as well?
 

AMD Rules

Lieutenant Commander
Joined
Sep 23, 2004
Messages
1,707
Re: '69 Merc 200 20hp-idle problems

Sounds like you've isolated your problem to the fuel pump and fuel lines. Any hole, is a hole that is too big.

As for parts availability, you should be able to find kits for that fuel pump & carb. Fuel line is available off the reel at most marine places. If you really get stuck, you may find alternate sources for unique parts on eBay; even used parts may help in some instances.
 

Drindin

Petty Officer 3rd Class
Joined
Oct 21, 2006
Messages
80
Re: '69 Merc 200 20hp-idle problems

AMD said:
Sounds like you've isolated your problem to the fuel pump and fuel lines. Any hole, is a hole that is too big.

As for parts availability, you should be able to find kits for that fuel pump & carb. Fuel line is available off the reel at most marine places. If you really get stuck, you may find alternate sources for unique parts on eBay; even used parts may help in some instances.
 

Drindin

Petty Officer 3rd Class
Joined
Oct 21, 2006
Messages
80
Re: '69 Merc 200 20hp-idle problems

Thanks. I had an idea but needed someone to to say "yeah, that's the right direction".
 

james33

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Jun 26, 2007
Messages
35
Re: '69 Merc 200 20hp-idle problems

Try just replacing the actual primer bulb itself.....teh 1 way valve may be jammed starving the cab of fuel... also make sure your fuel filkter isnt jamedd with gunk.....if this engine has a mercontrol lever system make sure the neutral throttle is wide open for about 10-20 seconds to ensure teh engine is warm... I have the same engine in the 1973 model and im having loads of problems with it..
 

Laddies

Banned
Joined
Sep 10, 2004
Messages
12,218
Re: '69 Merc 200 20hp-idle problems

You need to install check valves as well as a diaphram, if the checks are bad the act just like the problem your having. Most of your lines and connection are alright or they would leak as you pump the bulb
 
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