4.3 Mercuiser Hard Strating when Warm

easyloader

Seaman
Joined
Apr 25, 2014
Messages
68
The motor starts perfectly when cold, if idling on muffs for twenty minute boat still starts fine. If running it hard for a few minutes the motor cranks real slow then starts up. I have a mp4 but can't attach it.
Any ideas.
 

dubs283

Vice Admiral
Joined
Jul 27, 2005
Messages
5,338
Re: 4.3 Mercuiser Hard Strating when Warm

would need to connect scan tool and monitor data items/check for faults

when was the last full tune-up??
 

easyloader

Seaman
Joined
Apr 25, 2014
Messages
68
Re: 4.3 Mercuiser Hard Strating when Warm

would need to connect scan tool and monitor data items/check for faults

when was the last full tune-up??
I've replaced exhaust manifolds/risers/flappers due water infiltration.
while I was at replaced cap rotor,wires and plugs.
Someone mentioned it could be timing, hydro lock even though oil has no water, or bad compression.
am calling mechanic tomorrow.
what do you think?
 

dubs283

Vice Admiral
Joined
Jul 27, 2005
Messages
5,338
Re: 4.3 Mercuiser Hard Strating when Warm

i think a reputable marine mechanic will find the issue

did you check/adjust the timing after the new plugs, cap/rotor, etc...???

hydrolock will not show water in oil, but is possible with a faulty exhaust manifold(s)/gasket(s)
 

stang32

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Jul 16, 2004
Messages
513
Re: 4.3 Mercuiser Hard Strating when Warm

check the timing ,also check to make sure the battery connections are tight, if the engine is hot & there is any voltage drop, the engine will crank slow, stop crank,start
 

easyloader

Seaman
Joined
Apr 25, 2014
Messages
68
Re: 4.3 Mercuiser Hard Strating when Warm

The mechanic came by today and check the timing which was way off. I'll test it in the water this weekend.
My only concern is the way the mechanic adjusted the timing. All he did was put the timing light on number 1 cyclinder and made the adjustment. Based on forums I've read I thought that you had to put the ECM module in the service mode before adjusting the timing?
 

dubs283

Vice Admiral
Joined
Jul 27, 2005
Messages
5,338
Re: 4.3 Mercuiser Hard Strating when Warm

Based on forums I've read I thought that you had to put the ECM module in the service mode before adjusting the timing?

probably, what is the enigne serial number??
 

dubs283

Vice Admiral
Joined
Jul 27, 2005
Messages
5,338
Re: 4.3 Mercuiser Hard Strating when Warm

if it has the thunderbolt 5, you must ground the purple/wht lead when checking/setting timing

thunderbolt 4 is adjusted like a conventional ignition
 

CaptainMak

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Apr 28, 2012
Messages
294
Re: 4.3 Mercuiser Hard Strating when Warm

The mechanic came by today and check the timing which was way off. I'll test it in the water this weekend.
My only concern is the way the mechanic adjusted the timing. All he did was put the timing light on number 1 cyclinder and made the adjustment. Based on forums I've read I thought that you had to put the ECM module in the service mode before adjusting the timing?

This mechanic is reputable, right ?! Knows his stuff ?
 
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