1996 Force 120

[mergedplot]

I'm leaving the ramp and every time I put it in FWD the engine dies. Leaving me floating on the way into another boat. Was able to get it into reverse with more luck, however that also dies. Was able to get it into FWD but only because I increased throttle and shot out of the way of the other boat.

Needless to say I need to get this issue squared away. Does anyone have any ideas of where to start? Should I take it to a shop or is it something a slightly-more-than-backyard auto wrench can handle?

Thanks!

[roscoe]

May be a simple as the idle being a bit too low.

But.... time to check for spark on all 4 plugs.
And check the compression to make sure there isn't a low cylinder.

If those check out ok, then try increasing the idle a bit, 900 rpm is usually good.

What happens if you hit the choke just as you are shifting?

If all else fails, it may be time to rebuild the carbs.

How does it run at 2000 rpm?
How about full throttle?
What rpm's do you reach at full throttle?

You can handle this.
If you have a manual. (Clymer repair manual)

[mergedplot]

Very helpful post. In response:

- Checked plugs a few days ago.
- Looked relatively clean.-
- Compression was tested before I purchased, and tested perfect.
- I don't recall what the engine is idling at but I will check tomorrow.
- I will hit the choke during shifting tomorrow if I can get out.
- Carbs were replaced by mechanic before I purchased so hopefully they are OK. I don't imagine cleaning them would be too difficult (only have owned fuel injected cars)
- Runs GREAT at full throttle and IIRC full throttle is just over 5000. I usually cruise at 4000 or so.

Thanks roscoe, your reply was a big help and a step in the right direction for me to figure this out.

Regards,
Matt

[mergedplot]

I ordered the factory service manual from ebay (really wish the seller would reply to my questions) but until then, I'd like to adjust the idle tomorrow. Any ideas on how to do that on this engine?

Thanks,
Matt

[mergedplot]

Adjusting the idle on the Force 120.

Any ideas on how to do that?

Thanks,
Matt

[viking66]

I had that problem with my 1996 120 as well.

I ended up re-building the fuel pump. No problem in 1.5 seasons. My idle is at about 750, put it in gear, stays running fine. Before it would run a bit, then die. I also had to put it nuetral, and give it gas to get it started...no more.

I think it cost about $30.00 for the kit, and seriously 20 mins of my time to re-build the fuel pump.

Might work, sure did for me.

Thom

[Frank Acampora]

Idle should be about 700 in forward gear in the water. To adjust, find the screw near the bottom of the linkage tower. It bears against the block at idle. Loosen the lock nut and turn the screw in to raise idle then tighten lock nut.

Put the engine in forward and back to neutral and re-check idle--sometimes it changes slightly because of pressure on cables when adjusting.