Idling probems on my 87 125

[southernpride]

I have slight problem with my 125 force not idling correctly. Upon engine start, if I dont throttle up to get just out of idle speed, it goes dead. At first I thought it was just cold natured, but I found out the no matter how warm or cold the engine is, the problem is still there. Once I am out of the no wake zone, she runs like a rocket. She just doesn't like to idle.I have thought about adjusting the idle screws but thought I might ask around first maybe someone has had the same problem knows a better way out of it. Thanks for your help.

 

[gregmsr]

Re: Idling probems on my 87 125

Try adjusting the idle up a little. If you don't know how already, follow the throttle linkage down to where there is a bolt with a lock nut that rests against the block(starboard side, I think). Loosen the lock nut and turn the bolt (I think to the right) a little and re-tighten the lock nut. Don't know off the top of my head what the proper idle RPM is supposed to be.
I had the same problem and a little adjustment to idle helped.
But, DO NOT try and adjust the fuel mixture screws unless you are very sure of what your doing. Too lean on the mix and you will cause terminal damage to the motor. The idle adjustment is where I described.

 

[badly bent or broke]

Re: Idling probems on my 87 125

I was experiencing the same problem with poor idle performance until I found a post in this forum stating that a fuel pump rebuild would take care of the problem. After the rebuild my '97 Force 75HP runs much better at idle and I've seen an increase in RPMs at WOT.

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: Idling probems on my 87 125

Remember that those surface gap plugs (while advertised as more resistant to fouling) are very easily fouled. ANYTIME a Force or Chrysler has a problem either starting or idling, the first step is to either clean or replace the plugs. Then investigate further if necessary. ALWAYS carry a spare set of good plugs.

 

[rudedude]

Re: Idling probems on my 87 125

I would start at the fuel pump first. Clean or replace the plugs and fuel pump.

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: Idling probems on my 87 125

STAY AWAY FROM THOSE IDLE MIXTURE SCREWS. Everyone loves to play with them--they seem to have the same attraction as women's nipples--just gotta touch 'em.

Proper idle speed is 700-750 RPM in forward gear, in the water. Anything less and the engine will tend to stall. Meanwhile it will run great at speed. Same for plugs. Because of the ignition system design, less voltage is delivered at idle so fouled plugs will run crappy at idle but go like gangbusters at speed.

 

[rudedude]

Re: Idling probems on my 87 125

Frank, them nipples will cause ya about the same amount of trouble, nothing runs right after you mess with them also.

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: Idling probems on my 87 125

Yep! I Hear Ya! And one pair of them ended up costing me a lot more than an engine rebuild. LOL

 

[southernpride]

Re: Idling probems on my 87 125

Thanks for the advice and the laughs. I am assuming the air/fuel screws are the ones on top that has the spring under them. If this is correct, guess what, just like nipples I had to tweak them. Dont worry, I put them back where I found them. That is when this thread was started, because I realized that I didn't know what the heck I was fooling with and better get advice from someone who knew more about this than I did. I really do appreciate the help. Thank you much fellas.

 

[gregmsr]

Re: Idling probems on my 87 125

S-Pride, Don't feel all alone here. I once got a case of "nipple syndrome" myself while thinking the motor was running too rich and fouling plugs. I turned down 1/4 turn each. Then reading on this forum I saw the results of a too lean of a mix and immediately ran and backed them back out 1/4 turn. When I get brave enough, I plan to "mess" with them again to be sure things are right.
I think the starting setting is like 1 full turn out from lightly seated. I'll look in the manual and see and go from there. Be sure they are within safe settings.

There are lots of threads here pertaining to this subject and are very helpful!

 

[rudedude]

Re: Idling probems on my 87 125

I just dont think messing with nipples is a good Idea anymore, both kinds cost way too much money. One will burn your motor up and the other will burn your money.