To rebuild, or not to rebuild...that's the ?!

[ad4par1]

Good morning all.<br /><br />I'm currently in the process of rebuilding the carbs on my 50ESL71 elec shift Johnny, fuel problem. I've noticed on this BB that many fixes to many problems is to rebuild the carb(s). Are the carbs on outboards a regular rebuild item? I'm well versed in auto mechanics, but not in marine applications. If carb rebuild is a regular item, how often should I "have" to rebuild? I'm sure there are more out there that would like opinions on this subject.<br /><br />Thanks all (I can't wait to see what DHaley says on this one! You da man!)<br /><br />Alex

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: To rebuild, or not to rebuild...that's the ?!

Since the 2 stroke is blessed with running a fuel mix it is actually a double edged sword.<br /><br />The oil creates sludge and clogs the low speed circuits over time if neglected or even if old gas just sits in the carbs.<br /><br />Once the carbs are cleaned all the passages work. It is easier to keep them clean once properly cleaned.<br /><br />Little else goes wrong with a 2 stroke if you keep it running cool, proper ignition and clean working carbs.<br /><br />Bob

 

[Dhadley]

Re: To rebuild, or not to rebuild...that's the ?!

OK Ill give it a shot. OB carbs are like any carb. If you use them all the time they stay clean providing the fuel is clean. They gum up from sitting. There are some additives that can help prevent gumming. <br /><br />I know folks who use their boat once a year when company comes or that big tournament rolls around and they have to have the carbs cleaned each time. I was just trying to remember when the last time I cleaned the carbs on any of my motors. I guess it was when I put the motor together. On my 225 that was about 5-6 years ago now. Time flies.<br /><br />It seems the fuel today is slightly better than it was 2-3 years ago. Maybe when they changed the addative package it helped. We have also seen a decrease in scored pistons in the last couple of years. Usually when boats come out of storage each year there is a sharp increase in rebuilding of motors that were OK when they were put away 4-6 months ago. <br /><br />I just couldnt stand not using a boat in 6 months.