Yamaha 150 Cold Start

SRHBass · #1 December 7th, 2002, 01:38 PM

I run a 1988 Yamaha 150 HP Model P150TLRW on a Skeeter 185ZX. Up until this past season the engine has been starting when cold within a few seconds of turning the ignition key. This season it has become extremely tough to start. Once the engine starts for the day, it starts quick and runs great the rest of the time. I changed the spark plugs and installed a new battery. It turns over but seems to be flooded. This phenomenon began overnight. I have not had it professionally tuned up since it seems to run so good. The starting problem has me stumped. Any suggestions?

Solittle · #2 December 7th, 2002, 02:58 PM

Welcome - To throw out a few thoughts - Have you pulled the plugs after you have tried to start it but before you got it going? If they are dry then the fuel is not getting to the carbs as quickly as it used to - check fuel filter, primer bulb, fuel pick-up, etc. If the plugs are wet, check the ignition to see if the spark is strong.

ghostrider · #3 December 7th, 2002, 06:14 PM

I notice from your post that you are from wisconsin. i'm from indy. we both live in cold damp climates for this time of year, therefore, i suggest you try a fuel stabilizer, i.e., SEA FOAM or HEAT. this should ensure that condensation wont be a problem for your gas, gas line or carbs. Good Luck. I use SEA FOAM in everything i own that burns gas to include coleman lanterns.

SEA FOAM was originally designed for EVINRUDE for this very reason to assist with cold starts. sea foam will also decarb. you will not be disappointed. every one in my fishing club uses it and we have never experienced any problems. used in conjuction with proper maintenance, the period between carb or injector cleaning and decarbing is extended. check out this web site. if you try the SEA FOAM, post a response with your results.

www.seafoamsales.com

Forktail · #4 December 8th, 2002, 08:40 AM

Sounds like you haven't had it tuned since 1988? Among the basics (fuel filter, etc) I suggest a de-carb and possibly needles and seats. Check your ignition system too.

Capt Ken · #5 December 9th, 2002, 04:39 AM

Are you advancing the cold start lever any? I usually advance it about half way when starting. Most starting problems from Yamaha is due to not enough fuel. Be sure when you push the choke toggle, that it is working back at the engine. If someone pushes the manual choke linkage in too far, it can lock the linkage up and the electric choke won't work. On the other hand, try using the manual choke on the engine to see if it makes a difference.

SRHBass · #6 December 9th, 2002, 03:30 PM

Thanks everyone for your suggestions. This is the first forum that I have ever used. I'm impressed with how it works.

I am planning to try a de-carb process with the seafoam and have it tuned up. I do advance the cold start throttle and after reading the advice on needing more fuel, I will check for that in the spring. We are now in the hard water season so I can't check this stuff until March. Thanks again.

ghostrider · #7 December 9th, 2002, 03:58 PM

SRHbass--- I too was impressed with this forum when i first had the opportunity to use it. Its like going to outboard/boat college tuition free. i check the forum daily as the new topics are always interesting as are the answers. no matter how dumb a question may seem to some, to others (like me) the answers are helpful. Good Luck with your de-carbing in the spring. By the way i'm buying a boat with a 1988 Yamaha Pro-V 150 and have heard that it is a good performer.

SRHBass · #8 December 14th, 2002, 07:57 PM

As a rookie to the forum process, I'm impressed with the responses. As a result, I have a number of things I will check in the spring.

Regarding your decision to purchase a Yamaha 150 HP engine, I must say that you will be happy with your buy. I decided to upgrade to a Skeeter Bass rig and it was equiped with a Yamahe VMax 150. Other than the starting problem I have been trying to solve, It runs absolutely fantastic. You will not be disssapointed.