Really at a loss

[ryanr623]

Bought a lund Pro Angler 16, with a redone interior, for a song and a dance because the motor wouldn't stay running. It has a 40hp Evinrude VRO2. The compression is 140-140. Runs for 2 seconds then dies. Will stay running in neutral at WOT and If you start it and immediately put it in gear and WOT it bogs down and barely moves then dies.

So, I cleaned the gas tank, rebuilt the carbs, put in a new reed cage/reeds (reed was cracked) and gaskets, and put in new plugs. Still does the same thing. Has spark, I'm really at a loss.

Any ideas would be helpful.

 

[Chinewalker]

Sounds like it's running on the prime and not from the carbs. Not questioning your ability to clean a carb, but might want to double check that they're SPOTLESS. Also, how are your hoses? Old, original hoses may be deteriorating and filling the carbs with black gunk.

 

[oldboat1]

What year and model number?

You mention the VRO2, so assume you've determined the system is working well -- whether converted (premix) or not. If premix, use 50:1. Running at WOT in neutral is concerning, although would seem to indicate the fuel system is working -- don't think I would try to slam it while it has unresolved issues (won't throttle up in gear).

Let's see, could be a l.u. issue -- not a fan of running on muffs, but might try shifting on muffs to insure gears are engaging properly (no back pressure, so perhaps no stalling). Pull off the prop and inspect -- look for a wad of fishing line. A slipping hub could be an issue, but don't think you would see stalling with that. Good spark would be sharp 7/16" measured with a tester.

Inclined to think carb issues, as chinewalker suggests. Disassembly/soaking/picking is the standard approach when cleaning and rebuilding, including idle passages. Spraying with carb cleaner usually won't fully do it if it's varnished up.

 

[James R]

This old boat could have a fuel supply problem. It could be getting enough fuel for off load or after prime but runs out pretty quick. To eliminate the fuel pick up or tank muck being the culprit disconnect the hose tank side and put it in a jug of fuel and see what it does. Getting a lot of this problem.

 

[jimmbo]

Have you tried squeezing the primer bulb after it starts?