Primer bulb question - 99 Tracker Merc 75

[sixstring531]

Just ran my new (used) 99 Tracker Pro Team 185 w/ 75 hp 3 cyl for the first time and it did great! Not the typical first line for this section of the forum, but I do have a primer bulb question.

At idle the engine runs fine, it tends to sound a little "rougher" at idle. I used the "" because it really isn't rough and it only died on me once after starting it from a run. I tilted the engine up a tad and it died - turned the key and it started right up. Again - it runs great with no funny business. I think we cruised right around 40 mph and I wasn't quite at wot.

My question is - should the primer bulb get pretty tight? It never really got that tight and it lays horizontal. I've read it should be more vertical and if it's not "tight" then their may be a leak somewhere in the hose. I'm pretty sure it's the original and I really hesitate to change anything on a perfectly good running motor. I've read these 3 cyl mercs tend to be a little "rougher" at idle. I also checked the oil level (put marks on it..etc) and it seems to be working great as well.

So, anyone think I should try and change the bulb/hose or just call a good engine, good?

Thanks in advance.

 

[Texasmark]

Re: Primer bulb question - 99 Tracker Merc 75

The recommended position for the Merc/QK bulb is vertical when priming as it works better so they say. Prime till the bulb gets firm. Usually once running, the bulb will be partially filled and will not be all that firm, but you should be able to feel it and know that there is fuel on the engine side of it; unlike when you first squeeze it after sitting up for a long time and it is empty.

Mark

 

[sixstring531]

Re: Primer bulb question - 99 Tracker Merc 75

I suppose it's working fine then. You definitely know it's filling and pumping fuel -- just doesn't get rock hard like I've read about.