1998 Optimax Starting problem

[fellowx]

I have a 1998 135 HP Mercury Optimax. I LOVE THE MOTOR but I'm having some problems with it. It usually requires at least 2 starts to get it going for good. I'll squeeze the fuel pump about 2 times..and crank it, it starts up right away but as soon as I hit the throttle it shuts off and dies. Put it back into neutral and start it again and then it'll usually be good. It seems like there isn't enough gas going into it during the initial start up. I've tried starting it without pressing the pump and still same problem.

Am I doing something wrong?

 

[Silvertip]

Re: 1998 Optimax Starting problem

Does this happen every time you try to start the engine, or just on cold starts after the engine has sat for a few days.

 

[fellowx]

Re: 1998 Optimax Starting problem

Does this happen every time you try to start the engine, or just on cold starts after the engine has sat for a few days.

Just after cold starts.. After it's started, i can turn it off and turn it back on numerous times throughout the day without any problems.. but after it sits for a few days, then the problem occurs.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: 1998 Optimax Starting problem

Then it probably is fuel starvation. The fact that you are only squeezing the primer bulb twice is an indication that may be the problem. You need to squeeze the bulb until it firms up. This pressurizes the fuel system. With only two squeezes, you get a little fuel to the engine but when it starts, it quickly uses that fuel and then dies. On the second attempt at starting, the fuel pump now draws enough fuel to remain running. Try that and post back if it doesn't work. Be aware that once the engine is running, the primer bulb will not stay firm as fuel is being "drawn" through it rather than forced.