88 60 hp 3 cyl fuel problems

[Snyiper]

Ok so far I have replaced the bulb and can get a hard bulb but no fuel to carbs. I removed the fuel filter which is bettween the pump and carbs and the bulb will push gas to that point but when cranked it will not move any fuel. Is it a safe assumption the fuel pump is at fault at this time? The engine will fire when misted with fuel/oil and a spray bottle. Also which service manual is a better one for this engine? <br />thanks in advance for all your help.<br />Glenn

 

[andy6374]

Re: 88 60 hp 3 cyl fuel problems

So what you are saying, I think, is that gas is getting past the fuel pump when you pump the bulb. How do you know there is no fuel getting to the carbs. Did you remove the main jet plugs at in the fuel bowl of the carbs? Did no fuel pour come out of the jet plug hole? If fuel is getting past the fuel pump when you squeeze the bulb, but not getting into the carbs, then either your fuel lines are clogged in between the inline filter and the carbs or your inline filter is clogged.<br /><br />If there is gas in the carbs, it should fire. Unless the carbs are gummed up and in which case you need to clean them.<br /><br /><br />As far as manuals are concerned, Merc Factory manuals are the best but are a little technical. They are best used with a Seloc manual (which is designed for us slow folks).<br /><br />-andy

 

[Snyiper]

Re: 88 60 hp 3 cyl fuel problems

Thanks Andy you are correct fuel will go when pumped by the bulb but not when the engine cranks fuel filter removed. I am not sure it isnt reaching the carbs just guessing since it wont fire unless I mist it. I figured dry plugs when choked to death was a sign then firing when I mist it. How big of a job is r&r the carbs for cleaning Ive never done a outboard? I am sure I can do it heck if I can rebuild a quadrajet these should be easy enough I think.<br />Glenn

 

[AMD Rules]

Re: 88 60 hp 3 cyl fuel problems

Rebuilding those carbs is quite easy. Likely don't need the full overhaul kit unless your float is damaged. Just get needles , seats, and gaskets. Sound like maybe you have a clogged passage or a stuck needle. Check all fuel lines for leaks. I'd replace all the 5/16" hose anyways, with good line clamps to be sure.<br /><br />Take your time, be extra clean, blow all passages with compressed air, and set the float exactly as described in the manual. You'll be fine.<br /><br />Check out this (10.5mb .wmv) video, of a 'typical' carb overhaul.<br /><br />The fuel pump check valves and diaphragms could also be the culprit. Again, an easy fix.

 

[andy6374]

Re: 88 60 hp 3 cyl fuel problems

Not do disagree with a senior at this forum... But don't jump, at least not right away, to buying new needles and seats. Chances are the carbs are just dirty, rather than a stuck needle (not that it is unlikely). Start with a good cleaning and a new set of gaskets.<br /><br />Unfortunately, if I am wrong you will have to redisassemble and put in the new needles and seats.<br /><br />But, like AMDRules said a rebuild on the fuel pump is easy, inexpensive, and should be done.<br /><br />-andy

 

[AMD Rules]

Re: 88 60 hp 3 cyl fuel problems

Agreed. Inspect the needles for wear at the tips before deciding upon replacement. I wasn't exactly clear, and was trying to highlight that a complete 'overhaul' kit may not be required.<br /><br />Cleaning vs. rebuilding.