Force 85hp 1987 idle/forward/reverse problems

strippier

Cadet
Joined
Aug 10, 2004
Messages
22
Hi,<br />I know this sounds similar to other topics on here, so just want to ask a few BRIEF questions regarding my FORCE 85hp 1987 outboard, model no: 856x7b serial no: 4132 on a Bayliner Capri Bowrider.<br /><br />I have a similar problems to others:<br /><br />1) The engine starts fine when cold at dock and normally when warm in the ocean. Problem is when I engage forward or reverse gears slowly, the engine stalls. I have to full throttle then try n back off, to get the boat to go slow. Works about 2 outta 5 times, tis a PAIN, and makes mooring a NIGHTMARE. Also, if I try to restart the engine too many times in a row, then it floods the carbs and I have to wait ages to restart, although it always does restart after drainage and a few mins rest !<br />2) <br />SO could this be the CARB settings ?? Do I have to do the usual ½ turn to 1 ½ turn clockwise / anti clockwise to set my carbs ?? Have seen a few comments already. <br />2) Could my linkages to loose, therefore not making it engage gear / idle too well, although when running in neutral it idles perfect.<br /><br />Have bought some QuickSilver Power Tune spray for the carbs and some QuickSilver Fuel System additive, to will try those this wkend to see it it helps.<br />By t way, im running on Unleaded 95 petrol with 2-stroke outboard oil at 50:1 ratio.<br /><br />PPS: WHY DO FORCE ENGINES ALWAYS SEEM TO HAVE THE SAME PROBLEMS !!! ??????
 

12Footer

Fleet Admiral
Joined
Mar 25, 2001
Messages
8,217
Re: Force 85hp 1987 idle/forward/reverse problems

1.... Question; Does squeezing the primer bulb flood the carbs, or create spillage from them?<br />If so, you have gummy carbs, because the float needle is not shutting off fuel flow.<br />I would buy some carb cleaner, manual, AND order two kits, allong with a new fuel pump diaphram. Check tank for signs of water or debris, and tank vents for blockage.<br />2; is related to the first part, as carbs gum-up over a short period of non-use (less than 4 months down here in Florida's 92 degree summer heat). Gas given time, heat, humidity, will produce actual varnish (un refined,but still real vernish. My guess is the carbs are nasty, as is the fuel system, if the fuel sat unused 4 or more months.<br />Gas varnishes-up quicker for some strange reason when you add 2 cycle oil to it. Why this is, I have no clue--- just an observation of mine over the years.<br />If you've never done a carb before, CLICK HERE for some tips to keep you out of the woods.
 

strippier

Cadet
Joined
Aug 10, 2004
Messages
22
Re: Force 85hp 1987 idle/forward/reverse problems

Hi 12Footer,<br />Many thanks for all t info :+)<br />You are totally correct, the carbs dont seems to flood initially, BUT after running, if t engine stalls and i try to restart, with no joy i squeeze t primer bulb and YES it does flood t carbs and spills out of them !!!<br />Have ordered manual and carb cleaner already, just need a carb kit now then and diaphram. ANY idea where i can purchase these from as no-one over this side of the water seems to want to know !!! :+(<br /><br />Thanks again for the info<br />Steve
 

eurolarva

Rear Admiral
Joined
Jun 24, 2003
Messages
4,182
Re: Force 85hp 1987 idle/forward/reverse problems

Do you have Mercury dealers over there? If so you can find the part numbers you need here 85HP Force <br />Copy the part numbers down you need and order them from a Mercury dealer there. The link I posted is for the model number for the force you posted<br />Good luck
 

marty36

Recruit
Joined
Aug 18, 2004
Messages
3
Re: Force 85hp 1987 idle/forward/reverse problems

I had a similar problem. check your carb jets for proper altitude setting. this has a major affect on your idle. also do a compression test you may have a cylinder that is low in comp.
 

strippier

Cadet
Joined
Aug 10, 2004
Messages
22
Re: Force 85hp 1987 idle/forward/reverse problems

Hi All,<br />MANY THANKS for all the info about the carbs etc, was out on the boat on Saturday and used t carb cleaner, reset the idle and mixture screws, can now move as should, forward, reverse at slow speeds etc :+), makes life sooo much easier !!!<br /><br />Only one quick check though, at slow idle, sometimes fuel is forced out of the "air" needle on the middle carb only ( 3 carb model ) Is this because it coiuld still be bunged up with gunk, or maybe the float is sticking ????<br /><br />Many thanks again<br />Steve
 

jason.young

Recruit
Joined
Aug 29, 2004
Messages
1
Re: Force 85hp 1987 idle/forward/reverse problems

Hello, I have an 1985 force with the same problem. My question is, how did you use the carb cleaner? did you take the carbs apart, becuase that is what it seems like you have to do, but it doesnt look like you did? please tell me what exactly you did!@!!!
 
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