when to stop using cold start button

[mercerfisherman]

I own a Mercury 50 hp, 1984, 4-cylinder. When starting, I always use the throttle cold start button. After running the engine a good five minutes in gear and then stopping to fish for a half hour or so, should I resort to a cold start again, or just try turning the key with a little push on the choke? Otherwise, I'm afraid I might flood if I keep using the cold start button every time I start it. Any advice? My manual isn't very clear on this.

 

[Laddies]

Re: when to stop using cold start button

All the cold start does is advance the throttle so it won't flood the engine the choke button could

 

[mercerfisherman]

Re: when to stop using cold start button

Thanx -- I always thought the cold start button automatically acted as a choke and advanced the throttle. So, it's ok to keep using the cold start throttle anytime you start your engine?

 

[Laddies]

Re: when to stop using cold start button

Yup, the choke is either on a button on the box or you push the key in to work it

 

[Texasmark]

Re: when to stop using cold start button

Don't know if we're on the same sheet of music, but you should have 2 starting aids:

1. Fuel enrichment solenoid activated by a "cold start" pushbutton. (Assume it was there on the '84.)

Don't know which type you have but it doesn't matter; they both perform the same function. The choke type started with a rod (back when the 4 cyl first came out) you pull up on which stuck up thru the top of the cowling. This rod moved a plate across the front of the carbs that restricted the air and forced the fuel-air mix to be very rich. Later this was improved to be remotely accomplished via a solenoid; then they went to the "fuel enrichment" process where a solenoid added extra fuel to the engine at the carb and took the mechanical things (other than the solenoid) out.

2. Fast Idle. This is like we used to do in a car before the advent of fuel injection to start. You'd depress the acccelerator somewhat while you turned the key to start the car.

Your remote control either has a dedicated lever you can pull up or the shift lever disengages (via depressing the button in the center) to allow you to move the shift/throttle handle forward without placing the engine in F gear.
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Depending on how long the run time and off time I may just turn the key at idle and it catches.

Or If I have been sitting for awhile, I'll engage the fast idle, start it, let it run fast for a few seconds then go back to idle.

Or if it's cold and I have really been sitting for awhile I'll activate both the fast idle and the fuel enrichment like I do in starting the engine first thing for the day.

So pick and choose what you think is right for your occasion.

HTH

Mark