red garbage at carb inlet..what is it

[johnzonh]

so I am troubleshooting a no start situation... got spark..good compression... and fuel does come up through the pump...but checking the inline filter at the carb..noticed a bunch of red crap clogging it up. I haven't checked the fuel / water separator at the pump yet... and also notice that (what should be very fuel rich smelling) cylinders when I pull the plugs...only smell...umm MILDLY rich... and fuel-like. The accelerator pump does work...shoots out...something.... but hard to really tell if it is more water like.

shot filter at the pump? I am away from home I just want to know before I get back home what I prob have to go pick up at the parts store.

 

[johnzonh]

I need to clarify my own post... there is no separator on my engine... just the mechanical pump with a filter under. I am the lucky owner of a merc 165 3.7 1987 I/O.

I have a feeling I need to crack open the fuel delivery system. the carb was overhauled a few months back also.

 

[Eric 3.7LX Alpha 1]

You definitely want to get an inline fuel water separator between the fuel tank and the fuel pump. Remove the fuel line off the carb, and crank it over a few times into a container and see what the gas looks like.

How about a little more history on her. Did this just happen and was running already this season? Or 1st time trying to start it for the year or for many years?

Welcome to the 470 club

 

[johnzonh]

yeah I got the boat used early this year from a guy who didn't maintain it last year. Had really good maint. records from years past though. He said he ran it all last year. When I started it up this year (it started right away) sludge rained out the breather line ..found out coolant entered through the riser gasket.... entered the oil pan. totally freaked me out but ..oddly ..it started no problem.

So...changed all gaskets..inspected the head and valves... replaced a starter...coil...a few more minor items... did a carb kit.

The oil is contaminant free ...thats a good thing..and the engine turns over fine. No mechanical damage or hydro lock. I do get a spark to the plugs..but I am also wondering if I need to go to a hotter plug and replace the wires and points / condenser anyway just for kicks.

it just seems like I am missing something obvious.... I really want to hear this engine roar. I know people love 'em or hate 'em. I don't care. I wanna see my kids fall off a tube this year.