2002 50hp Tracker 3 cyldr rough idle

[nospark1196]

Recently purchased Bass Tracker/50hp Tracker(2002)<br />Runs great at 2000 rpm and above.It is VERY hard to keep it running below 2000 rpm. I've checked plugs, spark, primer bulb, etc. Could it be something simple like cable adjustment? I asked my local Merc. dealer about adjustments to throttle and idle adjustment, but he said that is done at the Factory and to mess with them would lead to timing problems. Any suggestions?

 

[clanton]

Re: 2002 50hp Tracker 3 cyldr rough idle

The engine still in warranty? How long has engine sat, without being run? Compression? Spark? Needs more then cable adjustment.

 

[nospark1196]

Re: 2002 50hp Tracker 3 cyldr rough idle

the engine is out of warranty. It sat for a few months before I purchased it from the original owner. It has spark on all 3 plugs. I have yet to check the compression. I have ordered a manual from Mercury, but it is not in yet. I was going to wait until it came in before I pulled the carbs off. I did not want to do anything "invasive" before I checked the simple things. The spark plugs are brand new and gapped to specs.

 

[clanton]

Re: 2002 50hp Tracker 3 cyldr rough idle

I have a 2000 3 cylinder 50 HP, owner sold because of rough running and hard starting. Engine Just needed the carbs cleaned and the floats set. Float setting important. Smoothest 50HP engine I have seen. You need factory manual, call Merc parts line, give them serial number to insure correct manual. I waited 5 weeks for manual.

 

[nospark1196]

Re: 2002 50hp Tracker 3 cyldr rough idle

Thanks for the info. I ordered the service manual from my local Merc. dealer. Do I need to purchase carb kits, or just soak the carbs in gas and blow out after and adjust floats ? Or should I purchase the De-carb spray and try that? I like to use the "k.i.s.s." method when it comes to my outboards. I appreciate you time and info with this matter.

 

[clanton]

Re: 2002 50hp Tracker 3 cyldr rough idle

Gunk carb cleaner, 1 gal about 20.00 at discount auto parts, insure you remove all white plastic parts, the black plastic can stand about a hour of soaking. I soak for about 45 minutes, then clean with water and air, still dirty, soak again for 45 minutes. If you use water hose with spray nozzle, you can spray water thru all of the passages, if water will come thru, they are open. Small copper wire thru main jet. You should only need a gasket kit. Dont soak float needle, dont remove the brass screw that is coated with red sealer.

 

[The Marine Doctor]

Re: 2002 50hp Tracker 3 cyldr rough idle

Your local Merc dealer is incorrect.<br /><br />The Timing,oiler,synchronization and carbs are not set at the factory. That is to be completed by doing a PDI on the engine.<br /><br />Pre Delivery Inspection.<---done by the dealer.<br /><br />TMD

 

[nospark1196]

Re: 2002 50hp Tracker 3 cyldr rough idle

Thanks, I'm headed to the auto parts store after work.I'll fill y'all in when I get a chance to clean the carbs.(Probably not 'till Sunday)Thanks again for your help.I wish I found this B.B. months ago!

 

[nospark1196]

Re: 2002 50hp Tracker 3 cyldr rough idle

It's Saturday night and Carbs are clean and new gaskets installed. Purchased Deep Creep to de-carb engine Sunday morning. I'm also going to replace fuel line and bulb. One thing I did not replace was the fuel pump diaphram. Is it a common thing to need to replace the diaphram on a year and a half old motor ? I'll post the results Sunday night. I look forward to more advise from y'all. Thanks again, Nospark.

 

[nospark1196]

Re: 2002 50hp Tracker 3 cyldr rough idle

Well, it worked! The motor purrs like a kitten!<br />Thanks for the help. I know where to come for great(cheap) advise.