Low idles. 1988 Force Outboard 85hp

[Themanofsteel]

My 1988 Force Outboard 85hp idle is really low and eventually dies. It also does when I try to throttle forward or back slowly. I Basically have to throttle fast.

I recently replaced one of the coils. This new problem started not long after I replaced the coil.

 

[jerryjerry05]

No Title

Do a compression and spark test. The spark should be able t​o jump 7/16 or more.
That tester is about $7. Good tool to have in your box.

One of the top posts is one for a linc and sinc. Or setting up the linkage.

The idle should be 750-850 in gear. Or about 1100-1200 in neutral.

 

[Themanofsteel]

I haven't done that yet but yesterday my brother tried adjusting the mixer screws on the carburetors. Now it doesn't start at all.

 

[jerryjerry05]

The "mixer screws" (first time I heard that one).
They should be set at 1 turn out and left there.
The factory sent out a bulletin stating 1 turn on the 85hp.
Some won't run at that setting so adjust if needed.

Compression and spark??
Link and sinc?​

 

[Themanofsteel]

So it turned out to be the Fuel Pump Diaphragm. It was torn. I replaced it. Starts and runs now. However since the "Mixture Screws" have been moved on the 3 Carbs, does 1 turn mean a full 360?

 

[SkiDad]

1 turn is 360. after you set them you need to reset your idle speed to 750-800 in gear in the water. The idle adjustment is at the bottom of the tower - do not touch the screw at the top of the tower as this is timing. Don't foget to re-tighten the lock nut on the idle screw.

 

[Themanofsteel]

How do you know when the idle is set to 750-800? How do you measure that? Also can u send pic of idle screw.

 

[jerryjerry05]

I'm guessing you have no tach?
They sell a tool called a "Tiny Tach"
Hooks to a spark plug lead.
I got one for $16 .

I changed my puter over to Windows 10 BIG mistake.
Now all the little functions I used to have doesn't work.
No copy paste, no downloading pics and lots more.

I tried to post a pic of the parts but no luck so go to the following:

Go to boatsdotnet look up your motor.
It's under Mercury outboards.
Find the powerhead pic and look for #82 That's the idle screw.

 

[scout-j-m]

The screw up against the block with the nut on it is the idle adjustment screw.

 

[Themanofsteel]

Got it. Which way do I adjust in or out?

 

[SkiDad]

Right (in) raises it.

 

[Themanofsteel]

Ok. Got it.