Mercruser 5.0L distributor cap question

[kandr]

I just have a quick, and potentially dumb question about my distributor cap. There is what appears to be a vacuum hose connector sticking out of my cap with nothing attached to it. Is there supposed to be a vacuum hose attached to this?
I ask this because since I got my boat back from service for a bad starter, my engine has been hesitating from between idle to around 3000 RPM. I think a vacuum leak could cause this, but I am sure so could 1000 other things.

 

[Fishermark]

Re: Mercruser 5.0L distributor cap question

No - it is just a vent.

Welcome to the forum!

 

[Don S]

Re: Mercruser 5.0L distributor cap question

No, no hose to it. All it is is a safe vent connection to prevent sparks but allow ventalation.
You might check the spark plugs just above the starter and make sure the plug wires didn't get knocked off or the plug broken. In some engine compartments that could happen very easily without even knowing it happened. Lots of things can cause a hesitation, a vacuum leak is not the prime suspect. Fuel filter, carb issues is what I would be looking at.
What year and/or SN is this 5.0L Mercruiser?

 

[kandr]

Re: Mercruser 5.0L distributor cap question

It is a 2002 four winns 18 foot. I don't have the serial number on me. I just bought it recently and I also also purchased a 2 year warranty, so if I can't figure it out, back it goes.
I know it is might just be a coincidence but it was running fine before the starter replacement.
Thanks for the help. You have no idea how long I searched for a good picture of that motor to see if a hose was attached.

 

[Haut Medoc]

Re: Mercruser 5.0L distributor cap question

Vent.....
http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=251571
Find the OEM manual for your engine in the link above....

 

[Bondo]

Re: Mercruser 5.0L distributor cap question

Ayuh,...

Funny how Sparks just can't fly around corners in a metal tube.....