[RAB1397]

1987 60hp Mariner starts good and runs WOT but I have an intermittent problem going in and out of gear. The neutral idle is smooth and I can rev the motor in neutral without any stumble. When I slide it slowly into gear it will quit. Or sometimes after running wide open without any problem when I shift back to Neutral it will die. However most times it will run good at idle speeds if I am able to get it into gear without stalling, also after backing down from high speeds.I've cleaned the fuel filter, change plugs, run from an external 2 gal tank with new premixed fuel(I have a mixer on board) and replace the primer ball. I have had the carbs off and cleaned them but I am not an expert so I don't know if I cleaned them well or if it needs a rebuild or rejetting. Seems like its a carb problem but I am a rookie at adjustments or rebuilds.Thanks guys.

[RAB1397]

I've also noticed that if I do get it into gear without stalling, if it runs rough I can tap on the choke and it smooths it out.How complicated is doing a carb rebuild? What's the cost? What kind of problems should I watch out for?Thanks

[RAB1397]

^ any input is greatly appreciated. Is it possible for idle adjustments to get out of wack or move over time. I want to readjust the idle but I see two screw on the front of each of the two carbs. One must be the idle adjust what is the other screw? My manual says adjust 1-1/4 turn, then back it out to RICH, then bring in back in to LEAN and split the difference. How do you go about this with two carbs. Do you work on one first, then the other, or do you slowly work both of them at the same time, for example 1/8 turn each, back and forth between both carbs.Thanks for any input.Rookie

[RAB1397]

one more time,does anyone have any suggestions for a rookie, or do you have to be Mr. Goodwrench to get some help????

[lawndog]

Roger Dodger,Be careful, I got chewed out for gettin' impatient just the other day. Somebody will have mercy on you soon.Roll Tide

[suzukidave]

If no one else will help, I'll try but I'm not a mechanic, just a boater with a couple fo wrenches . First never put your motor slowly in gear, put it in decisively or you'll damage the lower unit gears. If that stalls it then fix the stall, don't sacrifice your lower end.Second, get a better manual. It should tell you exactly how to adjust the idle, and also help you troubleshoot your symptoms. If you have an actual shop manual, grab a clymer too -- they are written for the non-wrench and fill in many gaps.Third, you haven't eliminated the rest of the fuel system. Does the primer bulb stay hard when running and does pumping it cure the problem? Check the fuel pump and the choke adjustment. Then check the fuel lines for loose connections, missing o-rings or leaks. If none of that works it may be carb rebuilding time but I am not the guy to tell you to go there. Hopefully someone will pick this thread up.