Recent content by Jumper

  1. J

    Need Tach clarification for 73 Merc 850

    Trying to get my tach working but can't figure out if it's set properly. There's only 4 "poles" on the back of the tach, but looking at the teleflex website, it suggests "6". Looking at the back of the tach, it's a Medallion Instruments Inc. Right now it's set on "1", but is this the correct...
  2. J

    Another question to add to the speedometer list

    I'm trying to get my gauges working on my boat (80 Monark bass boat with a 73 Merc 850). My speedometer isn't working. From what I gather, my speedo tube has an air hose running from the gauge to the back of the boat. The hose has been cut just under the console. I took and put the hose back...
  3. J

    Motor in gear or neutral when trailering?

    Just wondering if there's a difference between having your motor in gear or in neutral when trailering it down the highway. Or does it matter? Will the prop/gears wear out faster if it's spinning while going down the road?
  4. J

    Stiff throttle/control for 73 Merc 850

    The throttle control on my Merc seems to be real stiff or in need of adjustment. The motor doesn't really seem to respond till I get to at least half way with the throttle and even then, to get the RPM's up more and get the boat on plane, I have to really push down on the throttle. Almost to...
  5. J

    My motor runs great!! THANKS GUYS!!

    Took my boat out today for the first and after having a small problem (fuel starvation from a kinked fuel line; easily fixed), it runs great!!!! I wanted to say THANKS to everyone who helped me out with information!! This site is awesome!!!!
  6. J

    Where is the tell tale on a 73 Merc 850???

    Guys, I got my motor running today for the first time in over 10 years!!! I'm stoked!! :) :D I need to know though, where the tell tale is on a 73 Merc 850. After getting the motor running, I had water running out of a "grate" looking area on the lower unit. Is this the tell tale? I...
  7. J

    Will increasing fuel line length affect carbs?

    Here's the sitch: :rolleyes: :( <br />Been working on the motor all evening in an attempt to get it running in the next day or two. I've got a 73 Merc 850 with duel back drag carburetor's. I've got a two fuel lines running into the top carb and one going into the bottom. The hose that...
  8. J

    Last minute suggestions for a new boater??

    Well guys, I'm nearing the end of getting my boat and motor ready to put on the lake after being out of the water for 10 plus years. So far, I've had to replace the gear grease, water impeller, internal wiring harness (actually haven't put it on yet but it'll be here tomorrow), plugs and...
  9. J

    Do I really need to replace my Mercury Switch?

    Went to the boat dealer yesterday to order a new wiring harness and a mercury switch. The guy said I really didn't need a new switch since I have tilt and trim on the boat. Is he right in saying that or should I go ahead and replace it anyway?
  10. J

    Grease fittings for distributor??

    Was working on the motor (73 Merc 850) today and noticed a couple of grease fittings above the distributor. It looked like there was some yellow/cream looking grease around the fittings. What type of grease do I need for those and what exactly are they for?
  11. J

    Fuel mix question..

    I was reading in my manual and it said during the break in period to use a 25:1 fuel/oil ratio. After the break in period (which is typically how long?) it said to use the standard 50:1. My question is this: My motor (73 Merc 850) has been sitting for 10 plus years. Should I consider using...
  12. J

    What do I need to do to get my o/b running?

    I recently bought an aluminum bass boat with a '73 85hp Merc outboard on it. According to the guys wife, the boat hasn't been run for the last 10 years, maybe more. I'm hearing I need to do a tune-up and replace the water pump. After calling around and finding out how much it would cost to do...
See more
Top