Fuel Bulb does not get firm

[m1rodrig]

Prior to starting the engine I try to pump the fuel bulb to get it firm.It feels like if there is no fuel in bulb at all. I have a water separator installed in the fuel path also.The motor does start up but sometimes will shut off & I have to continue starting a couple of times untill pressure builds up & then it will stay running. Am I correct in thinking the bulb should fill up & get firm prior to starting the engine?

 

[LubeDude]

Re: Fuel Bulb does not get firm

I really think its time for a new bulb, or there is an obstuction in the tank vent.

 

[angus63]

Re: Fuel Bulb does not get firm

Yes, should get firm. Remove filter/seperator, fill it with fuel (mix). Screw it back on. Rotate bulb so arrow (fuel direction) is vertical facing up. Pump until firm. If it doesn't get firm, replace bulb (check valve probably shot). Good idea to use OMC fuel line and bulbs. Aftermarket stuff can cause headaches sometimes. There is a slight chance you have a fuel leak inside the cover you are not aware of, or one or more float valves in the carbs is stuck open, but the bulb should still fill and "feel firm" if this is the case.<br />Good Luck<br /><br />PS you should post engine model, year and HP when starting a new thread

 

[martin1b]

Re: Fuel Bulb does not get firm

I had the same problem. Turned out that it was a hairline crack in the fuel feed tube that went down into the tank. If the tank was 1/2 full and we were on the water, the sloshing around of the gas made the line suck up air.<br /><br />I'd pull it out of the tank and check it out. Good possibility that is what is wrong.<br /><br />Bill

 

[gearheadinWI]

Re: Fuel Bulb does not get firm

I had this problem last week, it was a motor not run in literally years. Then I heard the fuel squirting out of the front of the carb, when I looked it was a pretty good jet too. A carb kit fixed it, I might have gotten by with just a disassembly and cleaning but felt better about replacing all those old gaskets and packings.

 

[Richok]

Re: Fuel Bulb does not get firm

angus63 is correct about aftermarket stuff. I had a bulb suck down and would barely run. Replaced with OMC and cured the problem.

 

[m1rodrig]

Re: Fuel Bulb does not get firm

Thanks for all the replies I just now got around to reading since I was at the hospital with the birth of my 2nd son on the 31st they kept us in the hospital untill today and now I am preparing for this hurricane putting up shutters & i'm trying to find water.All the water has dissapeared off the shelves.I will check all the fuel lines & make sure no leaks & I will replace the bulb to see if this resolves the problem.Thanks to all & take care.

 

[m1rodrig]

Re: Fuel Bulb does not get firm

Angus thanks for thanks for bringing up about engine info.It is a 2001 Johnson ocean pro 150