89 200 Primer solenoid question

[dragonfly 200]

I have a question on the primer solenoid, does it cycle when you push the key in or does it only pulse once? I'm assuming mine has failed, engine is extremely hard to get started, but I found I could turn the red knob up, pump the bulb a few times and turn the red knob back down and it would start easier. Mine only clicks once when you push the key in. I removed one of the hoses and watched the hose while pushing the key in multple times and it never produced any fuel. I just rebulit the carbs and replaced all the fuel lines. I was going to install a rebuild kit in the primer but it was out of stock. Is it worth putting a kit in it or should I replace the whole thing.

Dragonfly 200

 

[reeldutch]

Re: 89 200 Primer solenoid question

it doesnt cycle at all.
all it does is it opens up a valve so fuel that has pressure from either fuel pump or primer bulb will bypass the carburators and squirt fuel directly into the crankcases.
so as long as the fuel pump is pumping it should squirt fuel into the engine when the primer solenoid is activated.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: 89 200 Primer solenoid question

Obviously it clicks only once each time you push the key in. You push and HOLD the key during the start process. Pushing and releasing does nothing. In fact, the starting procedure can be helped by 1) squeezing the primer bulb until its firm. 2) Fast idle lever up a bit.. 3) turn key to RUN (not START) 4) Push key and hold for a count of 8 - 10. 5) Start the engine. Bump the key (push it quickly) if the engine begins to die on a cold start.

 

[dragonfly 200]

Re: 89 200 Primer solenoid question

Thanks,
I went out today and was looking it over and I see what you mean, as long as there is fuel pressure going to the solenoid, push the key and that opens the value to allow fuel to small lines to prime the manifold with a little fuel.
I seached on the web and found the Sierra kit #18-7044, Iboats was out of stock. Will try the kit first and see if I can get it working, I know the solenoid is working because it clicks when the key is push.

Dragonfly 200