My old 4/6HP 2-strokes won't run.

[cloudix]

In our area (Lake Ontario) lake levels were high last year and we could not put our docks or boats in the water. So they have been sitting for 2 years. Fuel was run dry last time they were used.
Today I tried to start both the '79 6HP Johnson (6R79E) and the '74 4HP Evinrude (4406R).
Had same problem with both. Could not get fuel to engine. I disconnected the line from the fuel pump to the carb, but only every now and then got a little fuel. Both motors started and ran briefly once they had some fuel.
I have three fuel tanks and two hoses. Tried various combinations but none worked. When I squeeze bulb with fuel line leaving pump disconnected, I hear a swishing sound like air passing through. I also get leaks at tank end of the hose. Hardly any fuel ever gets to engines when squeezing bulbs.
Any tests I can do before I go and buy another hose and maybe disassemble the fuel pumps?
Could I eliminate the quick connect at the tank end so I don't suck air in there? Haven't seen suitable fitting, but presume I just need a 1/4" NPT fitting with a hose barb?

 

[oldboat1]

Just as a general point —could be insects, maybe some mold under moist conditions. Might try using a small phillips screwdriver to be sure the connectors aren’t gummed up. A little carb cleaner in the connectors wouldn’t hurt.

In any case, seems to be tanks/lines/connectors, as both motors are affected.

guessing, or course….

 

[cloudix]

I will start with a new fuel line. It does seem like the likely problem.

However, both motors used same fuel and were both last used 2 years ago, so it could be something like a gummed up fuel pump preventing fuel from flowing through. Both pumps were rebuilt and worked well before the last season they were run. At this stage unlikely carbs because I have fuel lines to them disconnected. But they could need dismantling and cleaning (even although they have hardly been run since last time they were apart.)

 

[cloudix]

Well today I ran some tests holding tank end connectors of fuel hose together. I was able to get some fuel through to the engines. They would run, but if I let go of the connector, air bubble flowed through fuel line and engines eventually cut out.

I put a new tank end connector on the 4HP's hose, And made up a new hose for the 6HP with fixed anti-syphon valve at tanlkoutlet (no connector). Both engines now run!

One other thing I did, is replace the hose from the tank to bulb on the 4HP with a piece of fuel injector hose I had. The Atwood hose was really junk. It had some sort of internal plastic liner that had become detached from the hose wall. No doubt partly blocking flow.

 

[oldboat1]

Glad to hear you got it handled!