Runs at home but not in the water

[KB_85_V20]

I'm just another one of those annoying new guys that bought an old boat without any knowledge of boat motors and now I need help. I got the boat ('85 WC Steplift) a week ago and took it out Sat. and it ran good for the most part but it stalled a few times when I put it in gear but once it got running it ran ok. Well today I ran in the driveway and it started after a few tries but once it got going it was smoking much more than usual. I decided that maybe it would be better in the water so I took it out and it started on the first try at the ramp and idled all the way out to the river and just before I was about to open it up, the thing died. Well we paddled back to the ramp and it started up for about 4 seconds then died again. When I got home i put the muffs on and it started up like it was brand new. WHAT THE HECK!? Its a 225 Johnson, I'm guessing late 80's. The previous owner said he put new power packs, new plugs/wires, impeller, starter, water pump... tons of crap. I'm pretty broke from buying the thing so any cheap fix/test is preferred but I know that this hobby is expensive so I'll do what I gotta do I guess.

 

[scrampbell]

Re: Runs at home but not in the water

First things first, congrats on your new boat! And welcome to iboats!

- Next, find out what you have... i.e. the model number and year (you're looking for something with "225" surrounded by some letters since yours is a 225hp).
- Then checkout the appropriate service manual from your local library. Seriously. Reading the general information and sections that relate to your motor specifically will do wonders for your understanding of your motor.
- Finally, and this is the part you've been waiting for... clean your carb (you want to focus on the jets) and make sure you have a good fuel filter installed. Everyone will (correctly) tell you to do a rebuild, but probably your problem is due to clogged jets in your carb.

This ought to get you going. You can find a diagram of your carb either in the service manual that you check out or on shop.evinrude.com.

 

[Phoenixfirewalker]

Re: Runs at home but not in the water

I've got the same darn problem
I get it going with starting fluid when im stuck out in the water

 

[69starcraft]

Re: Runs at home but not in the water

- Then checkout the appropriate service manual from your local library.

I have never found a service manual for ANYTHING at any Library I have ever been to in my entire life.

You always end up having to buy a manual.

 

[scrampbell]

Re: Runs at home but not in the water

I'm sorry to hear that Starcraft!

KB, I took the liberty of checking your local library and they have a manual you can use! It doesn't cover your exact engine, but the troubleshooting and general info sections should still be very helpful.

 

[ondarvr]

Re: Runs at home but not in the water

Needing starting fluid means you have problems, get them fixed or you'll be creating other problems by using it.

 

[Phoenixfirewalker]

Re: Runs at home but not in the water

exactly
what do I do then?