How long do I let it prime?

[Groat]

Hey Guys! Well I am finally on leave. So I have some time to take the kid out on the boat. I have a 1985 Johnson 150 v6 vro(disabled). I am just wondering about how long I let it prime. I ran into an issue about 2 weeks ago at the ramp (lucky me down here in Texas there are four lane ramps at all lakes!) the boat wouldnt start after about a minute of me priming the fuel pump. I usually turn the key stand there let it electric prime itself and then lift the fast idle handle as the previous owner showed me. Usually as I have noticed I have had to let it prime (with the key turned and handle lifted) for a minute at a time. The boat runs great after it starts. I had a little trouble after a hard rain cause of the boat filling with water(forgot to take plug out, wife went into labor with our second kid...I know I know leave it to an Army guy) Thanks in Advance the kid is stoked about fishing!

 

[Jeff_G]

Re: How long do I let it prime?

Make sure the engine is straight up and down.
Prime the carbs with the primer bulb until the bulb firms up, don't continue squeezing you can over fill the carbs causing flooding.
Lift the warm up lever.
The primer only works when the fuel is under pressure, ie when the engine is turning over.
Push the key in and turn to start while holding the key in until you get the engine to at least try to fire off.
You may have to keep priming the engine after starting, particularly on an older worn engine.
Once the engine starts reduce the rpm as low as possible as soon as possible, don't let the engine continue to rev in neutral.

You may want to check your compression as well and use a carbon remover.
I would recommend starting the engine on the hose at home before you go to the lake. It will make starting easier and both at home and at the lake.

 

[Groat]

Re: How long do I let it prime?

Jeff thanks for the quick reply. I have been keep the engine at an angle due to not wanting to mess up the l/u when my buddies backs me down into the water(seen it done) as far as the bulb mine is not able to be squeezed I have an electric pump. I agree on your suggestion to start it before I go out. I leave early so I guess the neighbors will have to start their day early. Also I have noticed a few times when I turn the fuel solenoid knob open and close the engine starts right away. Any tell tale signs there or am I just not doing it right? I am doing a complete service here in the next couple weeks while on leave. Thanks again

 

[Jeff_G]

Re: How long do I let it prime?

If you have an electric fuel pump it will prime the engine and pressureize the primer, don't hold the key in too long or you will flood the engine.

 

[Groat]

Re: How long do I let it prime?

I knew I was doing it the wrong way the whole time. Push the key in: Makes the fuel go into carbs which equals to priming. Wow what a way to break it down barney style. As usual this forum is great I usually dont need to post but I figured I should since I did not want to mess up this machine. Hopefully my time spent with it these next few weeks will be well educated from this forum and a service manual is going to be on order here tomarrow. You guys rock.