175 black max

[spooniekilla]

ok guys new here to this site and looking for an answer on whats wrong with my 1985 175 black max. when the engine is cold runs great. when it is on a hose runs great. i take it to the lake and starts right up warms up then dies. if i take off before it warms up it will run about 100 yards then die. wont restart unless i choke it a lot and barely runs then some times wont run at all. i am thinking stater any input would be great.

 

[hkeiner]

Re: 175 black max

There are many possibilities. I suggest doing some basic troubleshooting to narrow it down. For ignition related troubleshooting, a spark tester or DVA meter will let you check for a weak/failed spark when the motor dies. For fuel related troubleshooting, squeezing the fuel bulb prior to engine stall will help indicate if you have a failing fuel system caused by a bad fuel pump, fuel line restriction, dirty carbs, etc. The results of these basic troubleshooting tests will help guide you towards more possible tests to narrow down the problem further. Systematic troubleshooting is usually more effective than guessing at a particular cause based upon how a motor seems to run.

Having said the above, my bet would on either dirty carbs or a bad fuel pump. Just my thoughts...

 

[spooniekilla]

Re: 175 black max

i have done lots of fuel system test doesnt seem to be fuel. i dont have a DVA but can i ohm the stater possibly? What are the values?

 

[hkeiner]

Re: 175 black max

I would suggest using a spark tester to determine if the spark is failing before doing any bench testing of the stator or other ignition component. If the spark tester shows that the spark is not failing when the motor dies or can not be started, you do not have to do any further testing of the ignition components.

If the spark testor shows one or several cylinder's spark is failing, a lot can be learned by knowing which cylinders are missing a spark. Swapping some parts or wires to see if the failed spark moves with the part or stays with the cylinder helps to narrow down the possible causes. If the spark is failing on all cylinders, that narrows down the problem even further. I prefer this method for intitial troubleshooting, especially if the spark only fails when the motor is warm. Just my thoughts.

 

[spooniekilla]

Re: 175 black max

i will try tonight and see with a spark tester. the thing is it has to be on the water under load to fail. will try though thanks for advise keep em coming though as i have tried all kinds of stuff. always looking for more tests.

 

[hkeiner]

Re: 175 black max

as i have tried all kinds of stuff

Consider listing the stuff you have already tried. It will help others suggest useful tests that do not duplicate what you have already done and other tests that you may have overlooked doing.

 

[FireCapt]

Re: 175 black max

If you are able to rule out the ignition system then it is time to look at fuel and its delivery. It sounds like what I went through with water in the fuel. Try siphoning out the bottom of the fuel tank and see what you get. If you get some water (or anything nasty) out of there I would siphon it out until you get clean gas then drain the carbs and pump fresh fuel through. Fire her up and see if there is any difference.

 

[BarryJWood]

Re: 175 black max

Check the Ratios

 

[j_martin]

Re: 175 black max

My bet's on water, or fuel filter plugged with sludge.

I'd pull the hose off the bayonet (threaded fitting) and pump a quart of fuel into a peanut butter jar. Just take a look at it.

John