intermitant fuel problem - fuel bulb hard and won't start

[jonny_neffs]

Hello,

I am having an issue with my 1989 80 hp 3 cylinder engine. Ocassionally my 80 hp won't start. It is usually after running a while and then drifting while fishing. When I go to restart it is not getting fuel, fuel primer buld is hard. I always get it going but have to open fuel lines and crank a lot. It is always when it is very hot out. The other night it did it right away when I was launching it. It had been in my driveway all day in the hot sun - I was going out in the evening. It seems like vapor lock to me. I have changed the fuel filter thinking that was the issue. Once I get if started it runs good and does not happen again until I am out on the lake anothe time. Any suggestions how to remedy this issue?

Thanks,
jonny

 

[aussieflash]

Re: intermitant fuel problem - fuel bulb hard and won't start

Could be so many things.Are you choking correctly?Also check all fuel lines for cracks,leaks and fittings.Carbs might be due for rebuild/service.Just did mine.Also check fuel tank and pickup filter for dirt/crud.

 

[jonny_neffs]

Re: intermitant fuel problem - fuel bulb hard and won't start

ok thanks. I guess the most puzzling thing to me it is only once and a whiles and runs good 90% of the time and once I get it going it is good for the rest of the day.

 

[Coloradolakeboy]

Re: intermitant fuel problem - fuel bulb hard and won't start

Like aussie flash said. Check fuel lines, connectors and tank. Put a clear vinyl hose in your fuel line and check for air bubbles. Make sure the primer bulb is hard when you restart after fishing, if you are tilting the motor up, the gas in the carbs could be draining out. You could also try a portable gas tank to see if the problem clears up.

 

[jonny_neffs]

Re: intermitant fuel problem - fuel bulb hard and won't start

ok great thanks for all the information guys. maybe it is one of my tanks - I am running 2 6 gallon tanks. that would explain the on and off nature.

 

[jonny_neffs]

Re: intermitant fuel problem - fuel bulb hard and won't start

oh yeah forgot to ask - how do I choke correctly - I have to push my key in to chock and I just use it when I first start the boat after launching. usually when on the lake I do not choke.

 

[ajgraz]

Re: intermitant fuel problem - fuel bulb hard and won't start

In addition to what's been suggested, it could be bad needles and seats in the carbs. If they don't seal, the bowl vents fuel into the carb throat.