gas leakage when pumping primer bulb, help

mroman59

Recruit
Joined
May 9, 2009
Messages
5
When starting my Johnson 1989 15HP outboard, I can keep pumping the primer bulb & it does not become hard after about 3 or 4 pumps, & then fuel starts running out around the motor's lower cowling. This happens also when the engine is not running.

I assume it is a problem with the carburetor's float needle valve not shutting off when the bowl is full. If so, can someone tell me how to repair this. The carburetor was recently rebuilt and dont want to have to rebuild it again if I dont have to. Do you think it just needs a cleaning with carburetor gum out fluid or air blown to get out any dirt?

Thanks
MR
 

crxess

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Apr 30, 2009
Messages
559
Re: gas leakage when pumping primer bulb, help

First thing is to remove the cowl cover and watch while pumping. Is the fuel running out the carb throat or elsewhere?
You shouldn't need to rebuild the carb, but may need to pull it and check/reset the float.

A quick way to check the float is pull the fuel line to the carb. place a short length of clean hose on the carb and blow through the other end. If it is full of fuel you should not be able to pass air through.
 

samo_ott

Vice Admiral
Joined
Jun 18, 2006
Messages
5,125
Re: gas leakage when pumping primer bulb, help

Yes, open it up and pump it. It could be a split hose or loose clamp. Check the simple things first.
 

Mas

Lieutenant Commander
Joined
Oct 3, 2006
Messages
1,656
Re: gas leakage when pumping primer bulb, help

Try tapping the carb bowl, the float may just be stuck.

MAS
 

Rick.

Captain
Joined
Jul 30, 2006
Messages
3,740
Re: gas leakage when pumping primer bulb, help

Good advice above about it not necessarily coming from the carb. but if not......Rebuilt or not I would pull the carb. and re-clean it. It could well be something has come in from the gas line and won't let the needle shut off. If your hoses on the motor are not new I would replace them before putting the carb. back to work. Best of luck. Rick.
 
Top