Merc 3hp dies

[duck-n-pond]

I have a merc 3.0 hp for a kicker (not sure of year, but it is older). It starts easily enough but after running a bit, it dies. I like to run it from time to time and on occasion it will work fine. To date, I have removed the in-tank filter and installed new lines and a small inline filter, new plug, dissambled the carb and cleaned it, also put cleaner in while running. Most times it seems to run fine in the tank, but on the lake not so. Anyone with ideas on problem welcome. Seems like starving for gas, today I kept it running a little longer by playing with the choke. Thanks

 

[duck-n-pond]

Re: Merc 3hp dies

Doing some reading.....what symptom would a weak float cause...would this cause flooding?

 

[duck-n-pond]

Re: Merc 3hp dies

.

 

[paulgp6022]

Re: Merc 3hp dies

A float that is holding fuel will cause it to flood. If the float is heavier than spec. calls for, it will never rise all the way. This won't allow the needle valve to seat all the way, causing too much fuel to flow into the carb and motor.

 

[paulgp6022]

Re: Merc 3hp dies

Have you serviced the fuel pump?

 

[duck-n-pond]

Re: Merc 3hp dies

No fuel pump that I am aware of. It's a pretty simple motor (3 hp), except for an idiot like me. The fuel line goes directly from tank, to filter, to carb.

 

[greasemonkeyozi]

Re: Merc 3hp dies

Run some sea foam through the carbs while running. If problem persists, make sure carb jet adjusting screw is adjusted correctly, otherwise, a carborator rebuild may be at hand.

 

[duck-n-pond]

Re: Merc 3hp dies

Hi M.G.R.<br /><br />I have never adjusted a jet. Will have to look at it to see what this involves. Sounds reasonable that if jet lets too little fuel through I would get stalling once the bowl fuel is used. Will explore - thanks.

 

[duck-n-pond]

Re: Merc 3hp dies

Well, after running it again, I let it stall and slowloy removed the card and disassembled it while holding it upright. I notice there was very little gas in the bottom. Out of curiosity (based on SS Minnow and M.G.R. comments), I decided to tinker with the metal band that the float lifts and closes the fuel needle. After a couple times taking the bend out, the motor seems to be running a LOT better. Has not since stalled in the tank and much easier to start after stopping it myself. No lake test yet but I am optimistic.