3.6 Chrysler Outboard Lube Q

[Flyin_T]

I recently bought a 1974 Ensenada 20 with a Chrysler 3.6 outboard, which I suspect is original with the boat. No manual. I assumed it took a 50:1 gas/oil mix and fired it up. It starts and runs great for about 8 minutes then stumbles and quits. After about 15 seconds it will fire up again and run a few seconds. It will do this forever.
I've had the carb completely apart several times, clean as a whistle, replaced the fuel filter and hoses. Suspect it may be wrong fuel/oil ratio, but if so, wouldn't the engine freeze? (It doesn't.) What are the symptoms for too low a lube ratio? Could this be it? Any other ideas?

Thanks,
Flyin_T

 

[Sponsonwalker]

Re: 3.6 Chrysler Outboard Lube Q

Make sure the tank vent is open and clear. Next, check if the fuel filter (not sure if it's in the tank or in the fuel line) is clean. Also, check to make sure the fuel lines aren't clogged.

Hope this heads you in the right direction.

 

[Flyin_T]

Re: 3.6 Chrysler Outboard Lube Q

I first thought it was the tank vent, but even with the cap off the same thing happened. I also replaced the fuel filter and the fuel lines and bypassed the fuel shutoff valve, but still same result. What do you think about the fuel/oil ratio?

Again, Thanks,
Flyin_T

 

[Sponsonwalker]

Re: 3.6 Chrysler Outboard Lube Q

I think 50:1 is right, and that too little oil would cause it to seize up, not just stall. If you disconnect the fuel line, does the gas flow freely? Let the gas flow for a while (into a container, of course!) to make sure it's not restricted. If it flows alright, next move onto the carb.

It's possible the mixture screws are too lean or rich. Both (idle mixture screw, on the left side and main, on the lower front) should be open one turn for their initial setting, if I recall correctly.