can't prime fuel line

[ststeveo]

I replaced the prime bulb and changed the water separator. I put 5 gals in the tank even though the gauge reads 1/4 tank. I cannot get the prime bulb to fill. When I took off the separator it was full. Cannot even get that to fill. When I cut out the old bulb the tank side of the hose had fuel in it. Can a clogged line on the motor side of the prime bulb block the priming? Could this be from the fuel pump. Last time I tried to go out the motor started and ran a couple of minutes then i lost the prime and haven't gotten it back since. This is an '89 225.

 

[Chris1956]

Re: can't prime fuel line

Is the molded arrow in the primer bulb facing the motor? If not, it should be.

 

[bigrockets]

Re: can't prime fuel line

If its an inboard tank (built in) you may have a stuck anti-backflow valve, bad fuel line from tank to bulb, clogged vent or bad vent hose. Start with the tank vent and work your way back to the primer bulb. You may want to borrow a portable 6 gallon tank to see if everything is normal to the motor and that will also eliminate a bad primer bulb.

 

[ststeveo]

Re: can't prime fuel line

arrow is definitely in the right direction. Had no clogging when i poured the 5 gallons in but could still be the vent- i can start there. I'll see if anyone has a 6 gallon to work with first.
Thanks

 

[oxbeast1210]

Re: can't prime fuel line

When I replace my Water separator I fill it 3/4 o the way
With gas mixture. If I don't I can't get it to
Fill with just the bulb might be worth a try