Carb has fuel running out of bowl when I pump the primer bulb

[rgrruston]

Topic says it all. I have a "fixer upper" that is coming along well. Today was the day to start it up. I primed the fuel bulb and noticed it didn't hold pressure. I pumped it a few more times and noticed fuel running out of the bottom carb. Does this sound like a fuel bulb gasket or am I simplifying things too much??

1986 Force 85 hp

 

[pnwboat]

Re: Carb has fuel running out of bowl when I pump the primer bulb

It means that the needle valve in the carb is bad, or float level is set too high.

 

[rgrruston]

Re: Carb has fuel running out of bowl when I pump the primer bulb

Ok, so should I overhaul while I've got it torn apart or does that sound like a lot of work for a moderate fix?

 

[Skypilot52]

Re: Carb has fuel running out of bowl when I pump the primer bulb

I would check the float level & check needle valve to see if it is bad or small piece of something stuck on it or in opening where the needle valve seats.

 

[Barnacle_Bill]

Re: Carb has fuel running out of bowl when I pump the primer bulb

Rebuild the carbs and prevent possible near future problems..

 

[rgrruston]

Re: Carb has fuel running out of bowl when I pump the primer bulb

Yeah, I'm thinking 60 bucks for 3 rebuild kits seems like a good idea, while I'm at it. Please post if you think otherwise!!! Thank you for your input.

 

[jerryjerry05]

Re: Carb has fuel running out of bowl when I pump the primer bulb

Most times the carbs need a good cleaning.The parts U get with the kits (needle) don't always seem to fit.Try cleaning them first.J

 

[rickryder]

Re: Carb has fuel running out of bowl when I pump the primer bulb

I agree with JJ05
Just drop the bowl and give it a cleaning....can't hurt

 

[rgrruston]

Re: Carb has fuel running out of bowl when I pump the primer bulb

Ok....carbs cleaned and everything looks good. Leak free and replaced the fuel lines and fuel filter (had some fuel leaking from multiple areas in the line). Also, fuel didn't smell fresh...so I dumped the tank. So, I have new fuel, filter, lines, choke solenoid, and cleaned carbs...but I have a terrible time getting it started. I have to use starting fluid and spray it 4 or 5 times to get it going. Once it starts it runs like a champ. I don't want to take it to the lake if I have to spend 20 minutes starting it. I didn't mess with fuel/air on other carbs....everything seems fine....except I have to keep shooting the starter fluid multiple times to make it run. I'm thinking that can't be good for the powerhead/pistons/etc. I'm going to buy a new battery tomorrow because the current one is really weak after a few attempts at starting...even after charging for 12 hrs.

 

[jerryjerry05]

Re: Carb has fuel running out of bowl when I pump the primer bulb

U using the choke? If so is it working right? It might click but check for movement of the choke solenoid/piston.That working OK? If it's sticking,WD-40 will help loosen it.How about idle advance or fast idle?
Then start with the basics.Do a compression test.Take the battery(after U charge it) to an auto parts store so they can load test it(I bought a load tester at Harbor Freight for $20).Then clean the starter contacts/brushes.Check all electrical connections.J

 

[pnwboat]

Re: Carb has fuel running out of bowl when I pump the primer bulb

You may also consider checking the fuel pump diaphragm too. Just some simple preventive maintenance. Cost around $15.
If everything checks out OK, Choke, "Link and Sync" etc, try the following starting procedure. Put the throttle in the "Neutral Fast Idle" position. To do this, pull the throttle handle out towards the middle of the boat. It should come out about a 1/4 of an inch. There may be a release button in the center of the handle where it pivots that you have to push. Depends on what type of throttle set up you have. Push the throttle forward. Turn the ignition key on to engage the starter. While engaging the starter, push in on he ignition key to engage the choke. Do not choke more than 2 or 3 seconds at a time. Choking more than 2 or 3 seconds at a time will flood the engine. You shouldn't have to do this sequence more than 2 or 3 times if everything is working right.

 

[rgrruston]

Re: Carb has fuel running out of bowl when I pump the primer bulb

Ok, another update. Things are getting better, but still a starting issue. The choke solenoid is new and working properly. All choke plates close when choke is engaged. I bought a new marine battery and a new set of plugs. Yeah, I should have replaced the plugs before I ever tried cranking. So new fuel, fuel lines, plugs, choke, and all is working perfect. I just have one small issue. The first time I start it, after sitting all night or for several days, I have to spray a mist of starter fluid across the front of the carbs. Not directly in them at all. Just a 1/2 second blast across the intake holes. It fires up and runs perfectly. Using this method, I can leave it sitting for 4-5 minutes or 4-5 hours and when I turn the key and engage the choke it starts in 1/2 second. This was the case over several days of testing. I'm puzzled that it takes that little burst of starter fluid for that first start in the morning. Any ideas?? I almost feel like I should just live with it. After all the tinkering with this motor I'm thrilled that it runs so well. I think I'm willing to live with the little burst of starter fluid on fishing mornings but my mind keeps dwelling on the fact that it's not quite 100% right. I appreciate any ideas and thanks in advance.

 

[jason32038]

Re: Carb has fuel running out of bowl when I pump the primer bulb

Glad you fixed your problem. Hopefully you removed the welsh plug on the top of the carbs and cleaned the idle circuit.