1986 Evinrude 40hp Starving for Fuel

[mikegheenoe]

My engine is having major fuel problems....It will start up and if you constantly pump the primer bulb or hold down the choke it runs...but if not, it struggles to stay running or will shut off. Ive cleaned out the carbs and the fuel seems to get to the engine fine. The gas will also fill up the carbs bowls but it still starves...I am stumped...The engine has spark on both cylinders and the compression in each cylinder is 150psi..I would appreciate any suggestions or input! Thanks in advance!

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: 1986 Evinrude 40hp Starving for Fuel

ethanol poisioning. http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=299680
and carb cleaning. you have to remove the jets. rebuild kits are necessary.

 

[mikegheenoe]

Re: 1986 Evinrude 40hp Starving for Fuel

not sure if thats the problem....i cleaned out the carbs extensively and they look pristine...it would seem if it was clogged jets then it wouldnt go even when i hold in the choke..it wouldnt stay on at all..right??

 

[divinginn]

Re: 1986 Evinrude 40hp Starving for Fuel

It sounds like either a clogged fuel filter or a weak fuel pump. I have also had a clogged fuel pick up in a 6 gal. gas tank drive me nuts.

 

[petryshyn]

Re: 1986 Evinrude 40hp Starving for Fuel

Take the guess work out and connect in a fuel pressure gauge. Pull the larger hose off of the primer solenoid and connect the gauge. You should have 2-3psi or higher while running.

 

[Ironguts]

Re: 1986 Evinrude 40hp Starving for Fuel

Never assume. Use rebuild kit for carb and fuel pump and replace all fuel lines to eliminate potential leaks. Completely drain fuel tank, I mean drain from the drain pug. Mine had a thin layer of water that I never noticed until I completely drained the tank. Contaminates will mix quickly with fuel but will also separate quickly when allowed to settle. Fuel pick-up is located at the bottom of the tank right at the location of the contaminates. Don't be complacent when comes to your fuel system. Best to error on the side of caution.

 

[mikegheenoe]

Re: 1986 Evinrude 40hp Starving for Fuel

Thanks everyone! But I found out the problem, it was the fuel line that comes from inside the tank to the connector outside the tank. It was totally dry rotted on the top portion and cracked! Replaced it and it runs again!

 

[mrmill318]

Re: 1986 Evinrude 40hp Starving for Fuel

i have an old 20hp outboard. it isnt elec start. it will only fire on 1 cylinder. i have switched the coils, plugs and wires around and it still only fires on the same cylinder. any ideas??

 

[Daviet]

Re: 1986 Evinrude 40hp Starving for Fuel

mrmill318, you nedd to start your own post, give us the model number and maybe someone can help you.