1985 Black Max 200

[BZeni]

Hi! Please excuse the newbie question I'm sure has been asked but I cant seem to find an answer. We just bought this motor and had it on the water for the first time today. It was hard to start but once it did it did ok for a bit then it would die when you put it in gear. Didn't seem to run to smooth either. I'm a car girl but I know nothing about outboards. Of it were a car I'd say its starving for fuel. So what's the basics to start with? I cant find the flippin fuel filter! I have ordered a manual but it's not here yet. Thanks!

 

[jimmbo]

There is a screen on fuel pump that is the filter
If it is a 1985, it won't have a choke system, but it does have an enrichment primer to help starting. What is your starting routine?
The carbs(3 two barrel) might be gummed up/dirty and that might be causing your issue(s). Good spark to all cylinders? Compression numbers?

 

[BZeni]

Honestly sir I'm not sure about the compression numbers exactly it was checked before I bought it and they were good. I just got the boat actually so I don't really have a starting routine LOL since my post I have changed the screen in the filter. It was a little dirty but there was two screens in there. I don't think that would have restricted the flow that much but I could be wrong. And also the previous owner just did the carbs. I'm replacing the fuel line cuz it was kind of old and dry rotted I did check the fuel pickup line in the tank and it has a screen on the end of it that was clean.

 

[mike6868]

I have the same outboard! I would look into rebuilding the fuel pump, be sure the fuel is clean in the tanks. Mine is hard to start too... I like to start it in the morning before we head to the water... this way it fires right out when we get to the ramp.