2004 Mercruiser 4.3L Poor Idle after winterization

[Tahoe215]

Hello. My '04 4.3L Merc (Carburated) ran like a champ in Arizona for 2 seasons. I then relocated to South Carolina, had it professionaly winterized, and now it runs like crap. She starts ok, and can run at high RPM, but stalls when backed down to an idle. The odd thing is that its intermittent. Most of the time, I have those problems. But sometimes, she runs great for an hour or so. Then back to the same problems.

Also, there is also a noticable smell of gas, especially in the garage. I changed the fuel/water seperator and the spark plugs.

Does this sound like a carb problem or is there another filter I should check? Thanks in advance.

 

[Volphin]

Re: 2004 Mercruiser 4.3L Poor Idle after winterization

Check the carb and the fuel lines in a well ventilated area. Sounds like you are going WAY rich and stalling out. Probably time for a carb rebuild. BTW, welcome to the steamy south.

V

 

[Tahoe215]

Re: 2004 Mercruiser 4.3L Poor Idle after winterization

Thanks-it is steamy. What should a rebuild run me here in the deep south? Is it a dumb idea to attempt a DIY? I suppose I figured if I screwed it up, I'd give it to a pro.

 

[alexr254]

Re: 2004 Mercruiser 4.3L Poor Idle after winterization

I got my 4bbl rochester revived from the dead for $130.

I also got quoted much less, but my carb was in such bad shape i wanted to be sure a real pro did it, and real pro's require real pro money

 

[mpdive]

Re: 2004 Mercruiser 4.3L Poor Idle after winterization

Sounds as if your dumping fuel. Probably a bad needle and seat. Rebuild kits are inexpensive and actually fun to do. If your near Graniteville SC/Augusta GA drop it off and I'll do it for you. Where you at in SC? Welcome to the south and don't forget to winterize. Get's cold down here.

 

[Tahoe215]

Re: 2004 Mercruiser 4.3L Poor Idle after winterization

I'm in Columbia. Augusta's about an hour away I'd guess. I may take you up on your offer. I'd like to learn how to do it since something tells me this won't be the last time I have to. Would you be willing to teach an old dog a new trick? How can I get in touch with you?

 

[mpdive]

Re: 2004 Mercruiser 4.3L Poor Idle after winterization

Your close enough. As far as showing ya, the carb has to soak for a day so it's not a couple hour process. I usually rebuild them on my TV tray while I'm watching a good reality show! LOL Do you have anyone coming this way? I would be more than glad to do it for you if we can figure out the logistics. I am at exit 11 off I-20 just west of Aiken. I will send you a PM with contact info.