Will not stay running

fatkid

Cadet
Joined
Mar 18, 2011
Messages
19
I really need some help. I just bought a old pontoon with a 20hp Johnson model
#20R73A. Iam told that the engine wont stay running unless you pump the prime bulb
every 30 or so seconds. It looks to me that the fuel pump has already been rebuilt/replaced at some point because the hoses going into and out of the pump are held on with zip ties. The prime bulb and fuel hose are three years old and look to be fine. I dont have a bunch of cash to throw at this project so I need to narrow this problem down before I start buying {try this} parts. Any advice would be a huge help.
Thanks.
 

fireman57

Captain
Joined
Aug 24, 2004
Messages
3,811
Re: Will not stay running

If it keeps running when you pump the primer bulb it points to a bad fuel pump. Take the cover off the fuel pump and check the diaphragm for tears. Rebuild kit is cheap and available here,
 

fatkid

Cadet
Joined
Mar 18, 2011
Messages
19
Re: Will not stay running

If it keeps running when you pump the primer bulb it points to a bad fuel pump. Take the cover off the fuel pump and check the diaphragm for tears. Rebuild kit is cheap and available here,

I couldnt find a rebuild kit anywhere so I ordered a new pump. Where did you find one? Thanks for your help.
 

Big flop

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Apr 6, 2011
Messages
290
Re: Will not stay running

New fuel pump is good call ,also check gas line quick
Connect o-rings.
 

highcountry

Seaman
Joined
Aug 11, 2008
Messages
50
Re: Will not stay running

Gas fittings and connectors can be a real problem, I had an old Ted Williams that I finally figured out that it was drawing air at the connector after fuel pump and and and. lol
 

fatkid

Cadet
Joined
Mar 18, 2011
Messages
19
Re: Will not stay running

Thanks for all of the help. It now runs like its brand new. All I had to do is rebuild the carb, replace the fuel pump,all fuel lines,prime bulb and gas tank then de-carb. lol. It starts right up,revs good and will idle all day. I hope the rest of this pontoon project goes so good.
 

AlTn

Commander
Joined
Mar 9, 2010
Messages
2,813
Re: Will not stay running

thanks for posting back with results...you might consider replacing the waterpump impeller since this engine is new to you...
 

fatkid

Cadet
Joined
Mar 18, 2011
Messages
19
Re: Will not stay running

I am going to replace the impeller along with the points & condensers some day. Iam trying to get this project done and in the marina by June 1st so I have to pick and choose what I replace at this time. Running out of budget quick. Please send help.lol.
 
Last edited:

AlTn

Commander
Joined
Mar 9, 2010
Messages
2,813
Re: Will not stay running

The Helps not there yet?....probably drank all the beer on the way too!
 
Top