mariner 30 hp problems

[steven1215]

I have an early 90's mariner 30 hp outboard on my pontoon. it starts but will only move when the choke is on, and it will just slowly move. the cables look like they are working and moving fine. Not sure what is wrong. can not get it out of an idle speed. help

 

[Tjy7510]

I'm new to this as well but one thing I have learned is fuel problems are the #1 issue with boat motors. They sit with fuel in them too long without being ran clogs them up. First thing I would do is clean all the fuel lines and drain the carbs. Put fresh fuel in a auxiliary tank that has a newer pump ball and hose. Hook it up and pump till its firm. See if that works. Oh run some sea foam too which will clean out the carbs at the same time. Is this a 2 stroke or 4 stroke?

 

[flyingscott]

Need a model # and a compression and spark test need to be done.

 

[ondarvr]

After checking the compression a good carb cleaning will be in your future.

 

[steven1215]

I have clean the carb and fuel lines and new gas still same problem.

 

[ondarvr]

Did you take it completely apart and clean every small passage way with carb cleaner and compressed air? If the choke still needs to be used, it's still running lean.

​What was the compression on each cylinder?

 

[steven1215]

not sure of the compression and ill take it all apart again and clean and get a compression gauge.