fuel problem? 1984 50HP Johnson

[jpbramlett]

I have a 1984 50HP Johson Sea Horse. After the motor has run for a while (is good and warm) it becomes very hard starting/rough running at low speeds. I have to continuously choke it (electric choke via key) / finagle with the cold start lever to start it back up. I've noticed once I get it started back up, if I briefly hit the choke (a second or two) while in gear running slow it will give boost of power, like the motor wasn't getting enough fuel. <br />Here's the funny thing. It runs fine at full throttle. So if it is a fuel problem, it's not effecting WOT performance - or at least it doesn't seem to be. <br /><br />I noticed yesterday that the primer bulb was soft after one of these "hard starting" episodes, and I couldn't get it to firm up; the bulb worked fine when I first started the motor. <br /><br />I also have a large inline fuel/water seperator filter in line before the bulb that's aftermarket. <br /><br />Should I replace the fuel lines, bulb, get rid of the fuel/water seperator, all, none of the above, etc. <br /><br />Any help is appreciated.

 

[DJ]

Re: fuel problem? 1984 50HP Johnson

jpbramlett,<br /><br />Start by replacing the bulb. They will fail, from time to time.<br /><br />The bulb will never be really hard, but it should remain relatively firm.<br /><br />Do you see fuel leaking out the the carbs anywhere?

 

[jpbramlett]

Re: fuel problem? 1984 50HP Johnson

no carb leakage...why did you think WOT performance isn't affected?

 

[DJ]

Re: fuel problem? 1984 50HP Johnson

The fuel pump will eventually overcome any drain back that may have occured.

 

[jpbramlett]

Re: fuel problem? 1984 50HP Johnson

Thanks DJ...I'll give that a shot first...it will definitely be the cheapest, easiest route if it works.

 

[Hooty]

Re: fuel problem? 1984 50HP Johnson

John Bramlett was Personnel Director when I worked for Lone Star Boat in Plano, Texas eons ago. Know him?<br /><br />c/6<br />Hooty