Primer with red lever operation?

[kennyk]

Hi All, I have an 84 Evinrude 50 hp that uses the very popular primer with red lever. I was always under the asssumption that when you needed the extra fuel for cold starts that you just hold the key in, the solenoid moves the plunger to a position that then allows the fuel pump to push the gas through the primer and through the small hose into the carb base. My local boat mechanic said you should push the key in and out a few times and every time you do the plunger pushes out a fresh shot. Anyone know for FACT which is right/ which supplies more fuel? Thanks, Ken

 

[rickdb1boat]

Re: Primer with red lever operation?

Procedure would be to pump up the primer bulb until firm, turn the key to the ON position and hold the key in for a count of 5. Then while continuing to hold the key in, start the engine. If the engine wants to die, bump the key in a time or two until the motor smooths out..

 

[tedious]

Re: Primer with red lever operation?

Your assumption is correct. Find another mechanic.

Tim

 

[psteurer]

Re: Primer with red lever operation?

Your mechanic is right if he is referring to bumping the key in and out when the engine is already running. He is not correct if he is referring to bumping the key in and out when the engine is not running during a cold start. During the cold start, pushing the key in before starting only gives you one shot of fuel from the pressure built up by the primer bulb. Once the starter is cranking, having the key in will allow the fuel to go through both the primer solenoid and also get fed directly to the carburetor. I suppose you could bump the key during this starting process and get the same result. So maybe the mechanic is right.