2005 Mercruiser TKS 3.0 Litre, some problems with starting.

[kellmike626]

I have a 2005 Mercruiser 3.0 Liter Engine with an Alpha One Outdrive.

Often times when I start it up cold, it takes about 2 tries to get it going. Once the engine starts to warm up and the choke starts to open up, the engine feels like it's going to stall, but doesn't. (The idle drops to about 500 RPM), but once I get going, the boat runs excellent. When I slow down to idle again and put it in neutral, it stays at about 650-700 RPM, and the engine shows no signs of stalling or bogging.

However, when the engine is hot and I shut it down for about 20 minutes to 2 hours, the engine takes a few tries to start. At about the 5th or 6th time cranking, it starts but the Idle is only at about 400-500 RPM.

It's becoming a bit of an annoyance since we might be upgrading boats and I want it in top running shape before upgrading.

Any advice that could help me fix this problem would be great

 

[JWebber]

Re: 2005 Mercruiser TKS 3.0 Litre, some problems with starting.

Might want to get your idle up a bit, make sure it's up to running temp before making adjustments. Idle screw on throttle linkage is where you make the adjustment. Also a good all round tune might be in your favor too. After two full summers I had to tune mine up.. Runs like a champ now! Also when engine is hot run blower for two minutes then try starting..

 

[kellmike626]

Re: 2005 Mercruiser TKS 3.0 Litre, some problems with starting.

Adjusted the idle, and that did the trick. Starts up a lot better now too. Thanks for the tip.
I lost my manual (it's in storage somewhere) but what should the idle be set at? 650-700 RPM is what I heard is the best at full operating temperature if I remember correctly.