1968 merc 20 hp . could use some advice

[JBK248]

1968 merc 20 hp runs great with muffs in driveway or in a garbage can as well. Trailer it to the lake and launch, everything goes sideways. barely starts,Will not idle. Good compression, spark, rebuilt carb., new fuel lines, fresh fuel. Could this be a timing issue? I tried to adjust carb on lake but could not keep it running long enuff. this outboard does have points. This is my first outboard and im pulling my hair out trying to get some use out it. Thanks

 

[Chinewalker]

Re: 1968 merc 20 hp . could use some advice

Good compression? With a gauge or by feel?

Good spark? How was it checked? New condensers and points? They'll make a difference!

When it does start is it running on one or two cylinders? You can test by pulling and grounding one wire at a time and then attempting to start it. If it sounds the same as it did with both, then the pulled wire isn't firing. If it doesn't start at all, then it isn't firing on the one still connected...

 

[JBK248]

Re: 1968 merc 20 hp . could use some advice

Thanks for the input, Ill give it a shot after work.

 

[JBK248]

Re: 1968 merc 20 hp . could use some advice

screw it, who has a longshaft motor for sale in oakland county michigan? sick of this pos.