Pull start procedure

[snapshotmd]

I have a 1990 25hp Mercury outboard, which is rigged up for remote electric start, but also has a manual start pull cord to start without battery.

It starts up OK with turning the key in the ignition, but when I try to manually start the motor, nothing happens. I pulled like about 10x before quitting and checking the procedure, then start again. From what I understand, this is the procedure.

1) Prime the gas line by pumping the squeeze bulb until the bulb is firm,
2) Open choke by pulling the choke knob all the way out
3) Set the idle lever on the remote to high idle
4) Start pulling.

Am I doing anything wrong? Any suggestions?

 

[mmccoy555]

Re: Pull start procedure

Do you have the ignition on when pulling?

 

[joed]

Re: Pull start procedure

^^^^^ YEP.
You left out a key step. Turn ON the ignition switch.

 

[snapshotmd]

Re: Pull start procedure

You mean put the key in the ignition at the controls, turn the key, then pull the cord?

I guess that makes sense, since I'd take the key out to shutoff the motor.

In that case, do I still need to fool with the choke on the motor, or is setting the high idle on the controls good enough?

 

[joed]

Re: Pull start procedure

If the battery was dead the electric choke would not work. The procedure would be the same as electric starting. If you need to choke for starter then choke for rip cord. My engine very seldom needs a choke or primer bulb squease. In fact it floods if I squeeze the primer too much.

 

[snapshotmd]

Re: Pull start procedure

This is what I'm practicing for in case my battery is dead. I guess the key ignition must be engaged to complete a circuit in order for the motor to run. In the case of a dead battery, I would:

1) key on ignition
2) pull choke on the motor out
3) prime fuel line
4) start pulling