New here, just bought a boat, and don't know much about boats. Speak to me like you'd speak to someone who doesn't know anything about boat engines. 
I'd really appreciate any help you guys can offer. This site is really helpful from what I've read.
Specs on boat:
1993 Horizon 190 Four Winns
OMC Cobra 5.0L
4 barrell carburetor
Issues:
poor acceleration on start-up
boat stalls if throttle quickly engaged - thus difficulty pulling a slalom up outta the water
if throttle is engaged slowly, it does fine - but drowns the skier
boat runs at idle, but sounds sluggish
does not smoke when started
History:
I don't know the history on the boat or its engine maintenance. The dealer I bought it from said everything checked out okay (including alternator and battery putting out charge) and the oil was changed at the end of last season (2011). I got a deal on it, but half the gages dont work (including tach which may be important for diagnosis), would not start the first time out (battery), bilge does not work, several cosmetic issues including rotten floor, and I broke an alternator pulley belt 3rd time out. I bought a new battery, have replaced the floor (still need new carpet if anyone has suggestions) and everything seems to be working well except the acceleration issue. Of course being an anxious new boat owner and a self-diagnosed cheapskate, I didnt want to spend money on a tune up if one was not needed (I know that may be stupid and the first thing when buying a used engine is to perform one).
The first time out on the water I put twice the recommended dosage of Lucas fuel injector cleaner before filling up with 87 octane with 10% ethanol. Noticed the sluggishness problem. I've filled up twice since then. The second time I used 87 octane with Stabil ethanol stabilizer. Same sluggish problem. The third time I used 93 octane (but boat had 1/3 tank of 87 left from last run) with Stabil ethanol stabilizer. Same sluggish problem.
Potential Diagnosis:
1. From things I've read online, I thought it might first be the fuel/water separator. I pulled that off and poured into a container - a very, very minute amount of debris in the bottom, but absolutely no water in there. The filter looks pristine. First question - should I get a new one or just put this one back on? If I put it back on should I fill it up with gas first? Anything else I should do? I have all metal fittings and lines coming off it, so it doesnt look like there is anywhere to prime gas back into the engine (is that needed?).
2. Spark Plugs bad?
3. Carb problem - clogged flame arrestor? bad accelerator pump?
4. Fuel pump problem?
5. Circuit breaker for fuel pump bad?
Of these 5 things, what should I check and in what order? Also for all of them - the only thing I think I can easily figure out is the spark plugs - how do I look for the other problems? (remember to talk to me like I'm an idiot).
Thanks for any help!
I'd really appreciate any help you guys can offer. This site is really helpful from what I've read.Specs on boat:
1993 Horizon 190 Four Winns
OMC Cobra 5.0L
4 barrell carburetor
Issues:
poor acceleration on start-up
boat stalls if throttle quickly engaged - thus difficulty pulling a slalom up outta the water
if throttle is engaged slowly, it does fine - but drowns the skier
boat runs at idle, but sounds sluggish
does not smoke when started
History:
I don't know the history on the boat or its engine maintenance. The dealer I bought it from said everything checked out okay (including alternator and battery putting out charge) and the oil was changed at the end of last season (2011). I got a deal on it, but half the gages dont work (including tach which may be important for diagnosis), would not start the first time out (battery), bilge does not work, several cosmetic issues including rotten floor, and I broke an alternator pulley belt 3rd time out. I bought a new battery, have replaced the floor (still need new carpet if anyone has suggestions) and everything seems to be working well except the acceleration issue. Of course being an anxious new boat owner and a self-diagnosed cheapskate, I didnt want to spend money on a tune up if one was not needed (I know that may be stupid and the first thing when buying a used engine is to perform one).
The first time out on the water I put twice the recommended dosage of Lucas fuel injector cleaner before filling up with 87 octane with 10% ethanol. Noticed the sluggishness problem. I've filled up twice since then. The second time I used 87 octane with Stabil ethanol stabilizer. Same sluggish problem. The third time I used 93 octane (but boat had 1/3 tank of 87 left from last run) with Stabil ethanol stabilizer. Same sluggish problem.
Potential Diagnosis:
1. From things I've read online, I thought it might first be the fuel/water separator. I pulled that off and poured into a container - a very, very minute amount of debris in the bottom, but absolutely no water in there. The filter looks pristine. First question - should I get a new one or just put this one back on? If I put it back on should I fill it up with gas first? Anything else I should do? I have all metal fittings and lines coming off it, so it doesnt look like there is anywhere to prime gas back into the engine (is that needed?).
2. Spark Plugs bad?
3. Carb problem - clogged flame arrestor? bad accelerator pump?
4. Fuel pump problem?
5. Circuit breaker for fuel pump bad?
Of these 5 things, what should I check and in what order? Also for all of them - the only thing I think I can easily figure out is the spark plugs - how do I look for the other problems? (remember to talk to me like I'm an idiot).
Thanks for any help!
