It'll sputter for about 4 seconds then die.

[brokemerc]

To recap 1995 Bayliner Capri 1854, 3.0 I/O Alpha 1 Gen2, Cracked block, new motor from a 1989 Searay. I installed the new motor using all the searay attatching parts with the exception of the front mount and bell housing. I cleaned the fuel tank and it has 6 gallons of fresh fuel. Changed the oil and filter and it is reading full. New battery, replaced all gaskets and seals and impeller. If I pump the throttle it will start right up fine and run for about 3-4 seconds then sputter and die. I can keep it running as long as I pump the throttle continuously. I pulled the fuel line and double checked the filter which was full of fuel and spotless. I've sprayed carb cleaner everyplace I can think of. I installed a new clear plastic fuel line and there is no fuel dumping back into the carb thru it. I have a spare carb and fuel pump but thought i'd post this for troubleshooting ideas prior to just changing parts. Other things I noticed were there is an OFF RUN switch just forward and below the throttle lever,, the engine will start reguardless what position it's in. Probably not revelent but thought I'd mention it. Thanks for any ideas or suggestions.

 

[Don S]

Re: It'll sputter for about 4 seconds then die.

Does the choke work? Did you put in some new points? Have you checked the dwell, timing, etc.?

 

[brokemerc]

Re: It'll sputter for about 4 seconds then die.

The choke is closed not sure if it works,, even if it didn't I would think it would run longer than a couple of seconds especially when the motor is stone cold. Have not touched the points or dwell, owner said the points were new and the engine was running when removed.

 

[Bondo]

Re: It'll sputter for about 4 seconds then die.

Ayuh,........ Sounds like Junk in the Carb to me.......

 

[Robj]

Re: It'll sputter for about 4 seconds then die.

I would also check for vacuum leaks, especially around the carb base.

Have a great day,

Rob.

 

[Haut Medoc]

Re: It'll sputter for about 4 seconds then die.

Sounds like junk in the carb & it is just trying to run on the acc. pump....​

 

[achris]

Re: It'll sputter for about 4 seconds then die.

Either crap in the idle circuit of the carb.... or seriously retarded timing....

Don't belief what the previous owner told you... check it yourself.

Chris...............

 

[brokemerc]

Re: It'll sputter for about 4 seconds then die.

Wouldn't you think with the timing that it would run at higher rpms at least,, like I mentioned if I pump it full throttle it'll run for a few seconds then quit unless i'm quick to pump it full throttle again.. I was thinking crud in the carb. I may swap out the carb since I have another and see what it does. Thanks..

 

[brokemerc]

Re: It'll sputter for about 4 seconds then die.

Any ideas on this RUN/OFF switch by the throttle.. Runs in either position,, or at least for a few seconds.. Also when I connect the battery I automatically get the guage lights and the fuel gauge and alt. gauge are on.

 

[Haut Medoc]

Re: It'll sputter for about 4 seconds then die.

Sounds like there are wiring issues......
The gauges should only read with the key in the 'run' position.....
You will need a dvm to see whats happening.......
The Run/OFF switch sounds like a simple kill switch.....
If it works in either position, it sounds as though it has been bypassed....​

 

[rodbolt]

Re: It'll sputter for about 4 seconds then die.

the run/off switch is a safety device. its on,making the ign circuit, or off breaking it.
however with the key in the start position coil primary voltage is fed from the R terminal on the starter to the + terminal on the coil making it possible to have it start briefly until the key is released to the run position.
but like it was said, you have some wiring isues to attend to before doing anything else.