moter runs 15min and then dies

its a 1978 johnson 35 seahorse it runs 15 minutes dies and then 20 min later starts up fine someone said it could be the stater but i dont know much about boats at all so if u can help that would be great thanx

Re: moter runs 15min and then dies

Happy Thanksgiving bayliner and welcome aboard!<br /><br />First thing that comes to mind is possible overheating. Have you checked the block after such and episode? What you want to do is touch the flat area on top of the engine block right in front of the head. At an idle, after the engine has warmed up, you should be able to lay your fingers there for several seconds before having to remove them.<br /><br />Can you give us a little history on the engine? How long have you owned it, any problems previouly to this one? A model number would help also.<br /><br />The overheat suggestion is just that, a suggestion. A little history on the engine would help.....thanks.<br /><br />EDIT: Just one more question....on the starboard side of the lower engine pan is a tell tale, some call it a "pisser". When the engine is running, there should be a steady stream of water coming from it. Is there?

Re: moter runs 15min and then dies

bayliner - Your "someone" is shooting in the dark. Think about it. Your engine is running. How could a problem with the starter result in the engine stopping?<br /><br />How long has it been since the water pump and thermostat were replaced?

Re: moter runs 15min and then dies

Always say something Joe.....that's a real good point ya' just made.... Makes sense to. bayliner.....first job....make sure the tank is vented properly....if that's the problem....thank Joe.... If that ain't it, we can always continue. Stay in touch.

Re: moter runs 15min and then dies

Originally posted by bayliner47:<br /> its a 1978 johnson 35 seahorse it runs 15 minutes dies and then 20 min later starts up fine

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Bayliner47,<br /><br />I probably shouldn't even say anything since OBJ is on the scene, but I have personally seen a motor do exactly this if the vent on the fuel tank isn't open (portable tank of course). It would suck a vacuum on the tank and starve the fuel pump. My buddy who thinks he knows everything about boats was pretty embarrassed when I, who know next to nothing, figured it out. Anyway, I thought maybe we should check the simple solutions first. <br /><br />Just my $0.02 worth,<br />Joe

Re: moter runs 15min and then dies

SoLittle: He said stator, not starter.