Engine dying at idle

[brick75]

So I just started the boat up for the first time this year. It has had a full tank of gas with stabil since last fall, and I just replaced the fuel filter today. I expected to have to run it at a high idle for a few minutes to get it all up and running again, but even after about 10 minutes, it sputters and dies when I shift back into neutral and drop to idle speed.

I'm guessing it has to be something to do with the fuel and/or fuel system, but I'm worried that I won't even be able to get it into gear once on the water if it just dies in neutral. Anyone have any tips or advice on a fix? Do I just need to run it at high idle longer? Thanks

 

[ejj44]

Re: Engine dying at idle

I would like to add to this thread since I have been experiencing similar issues with my 3.0 Volvo Penta. The motor ran great early in the season but as of late it does not always want to start after launching and then when it does start I have to run at a high idle to warm it before I dare to engage the motor. If I do not it will die and then will not re-fire until it sits for a bit.
Would this be a fuel filter? I have ran plenty fuel through so it should not be bad fuel.

 

[kelleyja]

Re: Engine dying at idle

I worked through a similar problem this season on my 4.3GS. It sounds like you both are getting fuel (the engine runs at high RPM), but there may be some problem in the idle circuit of your carb.

Fisrt thing I'd do would be to rule out any problems before the carb (fuel pickup, anti siphon, fuel/water separator, fuel pump, pump relay) using the fuel problem troubleshooting guide in the sticky.

Assuming you're good there, a carb rebuild will help clear up any remaining idle issues.

 

[ejj44]

Re: Engine dying at idle

Can you direct me to this fuel problem troubleshooting guide?
Thanks

 

[RogersJetboat454]

Re: Engine dying at idle

Can you direct me to this fuel problem troubleshooting guide?
Thanks

It's found in the "adults only" thread at the top of the forum along with other useful diagnostic guides.

This is the one you need for diagnosis of the fuel system;
http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=283269

 

[Don S]

Re: Engine dying at idle

In about 99% of these types of problems, if the engine has good compression a simple tuneup and carb rebuild will put things back to normal. Water separating fuel filters also prevents a lot of carb rebuilding as long as the filter is checked and replaced yearly.