2018 Mercury 40 EFI – rhythmic RPM surging at WOT after 5 minutes – video

ryanagler

Recruit
Joined
Sep 16, 2026
Messages
2
Serial 1C563963, runs perfectly for ~5 minutes at full throttle, then RPM oscillates very rhythmically about 2 cycles/sec, no warning horn, immediately clears if throttle is pulled back and reapplied, but returns. I've tried a completely different fuel tank, bulb, and bypassed the fuel/water separator, same result. It just started randomly the other day, any ideas?
 

alldodge

Moderator
Staff member
Joined
Mar 8, 2009
Messages
44,517
My first thought is weak fuel pump
I would suggest putting a pressure gauge on it to see if it's falling off
 

ryanagler

Recruit
Joined
Sep 16, 2026
Messages
2
My first thought is weak fuel pump
I would suggest putting a pressure gauge on it to see if it's falling off
Thanks for the suggestion, I just ordered a gauge, should be here Friday. My understanding is there is a Schrader valve to attach it to, I'll take the cowling off and watch it out on the water
 
Top