1993 Johnson 200 HP: Surging Issues

[ejs_developer]

I'm having surging/power issues while running my engine at high speeds. The engine runs fast for a few minutes, then starts to run very slow and bog down, then fast again, and then slow again. At low speeds it seems to run fine. The odd thing is that the problem occurs mostly early in the morning. In the afternoon, after I have run the boat for awhile, I don't experience the problem. I have read through similar forums, but I am not sure what the issue is.

Note: I inspected the hand pump/bulb with the engine off and it looks good and is pumping fine. I have not yet checked the hand pump/bulb while the engine is running.

Does this sound like a fuel issue or some other issue?

If fuel related, should I change my fuel pump, fuel filter, etc.?

Thank you,
Ed

 

[JB]

Re: 1993 Johnson 200 HP: Surging Issues

Ahoy, Ed.

Welcome to iboats.

Sounds to me like it is either running out of gas (weak fuel pump, restricted fuel supply, air leak) or it is getting some water. Because it is happening only at high speed I suspect the fuel supply.

 

[HighTrim]

Re: 1993 Johnson 200 HP: Surging Issues

I agree with JB, sounds as if the carb bowls are getting emptied quicker than they are filling. When was the last time the carbs were rebuilt?

Will spraying pre mix into the carb throats pick it back up? How about pumping the fuel primer bulb?

 

[Faztbullet]

Re: 1993 Johnson 200 HP: Surging Issues

I agree that it sounds like a fuel issue, either a VRO crapping or anti siphon valve. Also check that the high speeds jets are not loose as this was a problem on these engines. Replace drain screw with BRP #344267 as it has a raised area to keep them from backing out.

 

[ejs_developer]

Re: 1993 Johnson 200 HP: Surging Issues

Ahoy All.

Thanks for the information and warm welcome.

The boat is on land right now. When I pump the ball it stays firm. With the engine cover off I see gas (with oil mixture) going though the small inline filter and into the engine.

I will take the boat out tomorrow. If I feel a surge at high speeds, I will pump the ball and see what happens.

P.S. The carbs and fuel pump have never been cleaned or replaced.

Thanks,
Ed