'89 88SPL Proper Starting Technique

pennyanman

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Jun 12, 2002
Messages
42
I'm wondering what correct technique is for using the primer. My older outboard would start when the choke toggle switch was held "on" until the engine started. With this motor I'm holding the choke switch as before but I seem to be flooding the motor. I bought the motor used and didn't receive the owner's manual.
 
D

DJ

Guest
Re: '89 88SPL Proper Starting Technique

Penyanman,<br /><br />Turn the key to the ON position (not start).<br /><br />Push the key in and count to eight.<br /><br />Release, key and turn to start.
 

Solittle

Fleet Admiral
Joined
Apr 28, 2002
Messages
7,518
Re: '89 88SPL Proper Starting Technique

In some ways an outboard is like a woman. Ya got to recognize that what is in the manual is not always the key to get um runnin. You got to try a bit of this and a bit of that. Once you find what makes um happy just keep doin the same thing and smile from ear to ear.
 

BKool68

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Oct 14, 2001
Messages
259
Re: '89 88SPL Proper Starting Technique

On a cold motor holding the key in while cranking is correct. Are you lifting the throttle lever up also? Old plugs also make it hard to start.
 

Dhadley

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Feb 4, 2001
Messages
16,978
Re: '89 88SPL Proper Starting Technique

Or wrong plugs. Old fuel makes it difficult sometimes too.<br /><br />Good luck!
 

pennyanman

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Jun 12, 2002
Messages
42
Re: '89 88SPL Proper Starting Technique

New plugs, fresh gas, warmup lever full up, but I only get about 1200 to 1400 rpm. The motor is new to this boat and I'm using my old control box. Anybody know what the maximum warmup lever rpm should be? I haven't messed with the adjustment screw on the front of the control box yet.
 

Dhadley

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Feb 4, 2001
Messages
16,978
Re: '89 88SPL Proper Starting Technique

It does not matter if the plugs are new. If they are the wrong ones it still may be hard to start.<br /><br />Try Djohns suggestion;<br />Pump the bulb to pressurize the system.<br />Turn the key to "on" (do not engage starter) and push in.<br />Hold for an 8 count.<br />Engage starter.<br /><br />The motor should start right away. You may have to tap the primer a few times. Let it "warm up" at about 1500 RPM.<br /><br />Good luck!
 
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