Mercury 500 trouble getting going

Scoots

Cadet
Joined
Apr 11, 2009
Messages
29
Hello all, I have a 1971 Merc 500 that starts great and idles great, however, when I put it in gear it dies (most of the time). Often times after it dies I have a difficult time starting it again. It almost seems as though it is flooding out. If I start the motor and push the small black lever ( throttle advance??) forward the motor just roars-- runs great. If I do get the motor to run correctly it seems like I'm burning thru fuel way too quickly. Any suggestions??
 

olsenk514

Seaman
Joined
Sep 3, 2009
Messages
50
Re: Mercury 500 trouble getting going

Sounds like you could have an issue with your lower unit. When the motor is in neutral, can you spin the prop freely? or does it feel like it's binding up?

Also, have you checked the lower unit oil for water/low oil and the prop seals for fishing line?

Just some suggestions
 

Scoots

Cadet
Joined
Apr 11, 2009
Messages
29
Re: Mercury 500 trouble getting going

The prop spins freely and there is no fishing line etc. Thanks for the ideas.
 
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