'55 Seahorse 25hp wont stay running. Help!! Upcoming tournament!

[greatoutdoors]

Hi Guys,
Just picked up a '55 25hp Seahorse today for dirt cheap. The guy told me it starts, but won't stay running. I figured for $60 it was worth a shot. I got there, it started on the 1st pull, but after 5-10 seconds or so, stops running. Feels like it has great compression. It will start right back up and do the same thing. I'm going to rebuild the carb and clean it thoroughly. What is causing this to happen? Is there supposed to be some sort of cover over the front of the carb where the choke butterfly is? There is nothing there now. Also, any info I can get on this motor would be a bonus. Fuel oil ratio? Spark plug gap? I hope to get this baby running well so I could replace the '53 Ev Fastwin 15hp that is on my boat now for an upcoming bass tournament. I know the kind gentlemen on this forum have the knowledge and experience to help me out. Thank you very much in advance.

 

[Chinewalker]

Re: '55 Seahorse 25hp wont stay running. Help!! Upcoming tournament!

Can I assume you have a dual-line fuel tank from your 15? Cap is tight? How are the hoses inside the cowling? Have you cleaned the carburetor?

Fuel ratio: 24:1. Point gap: .020"

Be sure to replace the waterpump impeller and check the lower unit oil. Take a look at the coils, too - commonly cracked if they're originals and could be causing your issue.

 

[lindy46]

Re: '55 Seahorse 25hp wont stay running. Help!! Upcoming tournament!

Hi Guys,
Is there supposed to be some sort of cover over the front of the carb where the choke butterfly is? There is nothing there now.

There was an air silencer originally, but they usually get taken off over the years. Not necessary for it to run properly.

 

[geedubcpa]

Re: '55 Seahorse 25hp wont stay running. Help!! Upcoming tournament!

Sounds like it is not getting enough gas - I have seen people mix a little gas and oil and use a squirt bottle to feed the carb - you do this to determine if it is a fuel problem - if it keeps running under this scenario then you have fuel lines or pump problems.