74 mercruiser 140 operation questions

[AEROCOOK]

I just bought a 1974 19' Starcraft aluminum bowrider with a Mercruiser 140. I have owned many outboards over the years but this is my first I.O. and I have some questions about operating the unit.
What is the starting procedure? Is there a choke and if so where is the switch for it located?
If someone has a simillar vintage mercruiser and wouldent mind helping me get aquainted I would really appreciate it.

 

[SpinnerBait_Nut]

Re: 74 mercruiser 140 operation questions

Better answered in the Mercruiser/Volvo/OMC I/O and Inboard troubles and repair forum.

 

[Alumarine]

Re: 74 mercruiser 140 operation questions

On my 74 there is a black button at the bottom of the control lever (I have a single lever setup).

You push that button in which allows you to move the lever in the throttle only mode (the gears will not engage).

As you probably have a manual choke you should pump the throttle a couple of times to set the choke and keep the lever pushed forward a bit to keep the revs up.

Once it starts and is idling well you can bring the lever back to the middle position which will disable the throttle only mode.

 

[AEROCOOK]

Re: 74 mercruiser 140 operation questions

Thanks for the reply marc c.
I was wondering about that knob at the bottom of the throttle lever, now I know.
I think you meant automatic choke when you said "Manual"?
You indicated that you pump the throttle a couple of times to activate the choke (same as a car without fuel injection) and I assume it turns it's self off when the motor is warm? There is no manual button identified as choke.

 

[Alumarine]

Re: 74 mercruiser 140 operation questions

Yes, I meant automatic. It's not an electric choke.

The choke should open fully when the engine is warm.

Thanks for the reply marc c.
I was wondering about that knob at the bottom of the throttle lever, now I know.
I think you meant automatic choke when you said "Manual"?
You indicated that you pump the throttle a couple of times to activate the choke (same as a car without fuel injection) and I assume it turns it's self off when the motor is warm? There is no manual button identified as choke.