Starting yamaha 4 stroke outboard after winter storage

[Photoboater]

Hi all, first timer on here so please bear with me, my question is how long do it take for the water to come out of the telltale on a yamaha 250 4 stroke outboard after sitting for the winter, last year started engine ran it for about 10 seconds didn't see any water shut it down as a safety step, was told to let it run for about 2 minutes until the engine filled up with water, did that and water came out used boat all season, no problem, today I start it run for 3 to 4 minutes, nothing happens, take it out of tank and apply muffs, same thing 2 to 3 minutes nothing happens, I keep hearing to let it run longer but am nervous, any help would be greatly appreciated, thanks in advance

 

[charleso]

Sounds like it would be well advised to drop the lower and inspect the impeller. It may be losing flexibility and not moving water like it should.

 

[robert graham]

Check your tell tale opening for wasp or spider nests causing obstructed water flow.....a section of heavy monofilament fishing line works good for this...

 

[Khowcroft81]

I had a similar issue. Find something that will fit in the hole. I used to keep a few toothpicks in my glove box for that reason. Just push it in and out a few times while it's running and if there's a clog it should start gushing out. Also if it's something really jammed. You can use a very small sewing needle I bought one for this exact issue. It has a hook on the end and will pull the obstructions out. Doubles as a pic for baitcasters when you get a birds nest. If that doesn't do it, you most likely have a impeller problem. Good luck.

 

[thatone123]

Sometimes there is a lag, depending on some things as above. Some start water flow later than others. Salt deposits on salt water motors is common. I use a piece of bailing wire or similar to unclog the salt deposits or whatever. Your lag seems really long though, so it could be water pump. I recently saw a motor so clogged with salt that it completely clogged the thermostat closed for good.