Starter fluid needed to start engine

[SeaSkwurrel]

I've got an '81 OMC 800 w/a '75 350 Chevy. I have to use starter fluid to get it to start, then it's fine. I do pump the throttle a few times first, but that doesn't help. Any ideas?<br />Thanks

 

[jeff13601]

Re: Starter fluid needed to start engine

You need to stop using a lot of starter fluid or eventually you are going to damage your engine. See if it will start by pouring a small amount of gas into the carb. When is the last time she had a tuneup?

 

[Boatist]

Re: Starter fluid needed to start engine

Sea<br />Sounds like a fuel problem to me.<br />Does the choke close when you pump the throttle?<br />When you pump the throttle does the accelerator pump pump in a stream of fuel?<br />If boat has not been started is over a month Carburetor could be dry and will take some time to pump up fuel.<br /><br />If the fuel looks good then I would start with the basics. <br />Do a compression check.<br />Check for a good spark.<br />Check dwell and timing.

 

[Richard Petersen]

Re: Starter fluid needed to start engine

You have no accelerator pump working. Old age or some one disconnected it. You CAN always start a cold engine with a good accelerator pump in the carb. Choke is nice but not necessary.

 

[jamesr1]

Re: Starter fluid needed to start engine

You can remove the line and filter from the carb and try spraying some carb cleaner back into the carb.

 

[Boomyal]

Re: Starter fluid needed to start engine

Take off the spark arrestor, check the position of the choke plate before you hit the key. Then have someone pump the throttle a couple of times and look for the squirt of fuel down the venturis. A marginal spark can also account for hard starting.