engine misfiring

shokwav_99

Recruit
Joined
Aug 8, 2005
Messages
2
I have a 1978 Merc 70hp. The engine starts with no problem except iy will not run on idle. It also seems to be misfiring. I bought the engine last month but it has not run for over a year. Anyone have any suggestions on what it could be?
 

Chris1956

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Mar 25, 2004
Messages
28,074
Re: engine misfiring

When gas sits in the carbs for a long time, it will tend to clog up the idle circuits. It is my guess that is what happened to you. best bet is to clean up the carbs. Gasket kits are about $5-6/carb. Also, check your plugs to assure they are good.
 

Chris1956

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Mar 25, 2004
Messages
28,074
Re: engine misfiring

Mfd, You can try it. No guarantees though. The idle circuit admits air through the idle inlet hole outside of the butterfly, and routes the air into the carb throat from holes in the side of the throat behind the butterfly. The fuel passes from the bowl, through the main jet, up the idle restrictor tube, past the idle needle and there it mixes with the idle air.<br /><br />Remove the idle needle, remove the main jet cover (7/16 hex bolt base of carb) stick carb cleaner spray nozzle into idle needle hole and give it a good spray while moving it in and out. Spray should come out the throat and main jet hole. Now stick it into the idle port hole inside the throat. Give it a good spray, and stuff should come out the throat, main jet and idle needle hole.
 
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