Correct Procedure for Starting 50hp Mariner Motor?

RLRick · #1 December 29th, 2006, 10:47 PM

Have just bought a used 1999 16' Tracker with a 50hp Mariner Motor (my first boat). Seem to have trouble figuring out the correct procedure to start the motor. Has a Choke button on console. I'm not sure when/when not to use it...Not sure how much throttle is appropriate? I would appreciate any suggestions or comments from a veteran boater. Ignorance is NOT Bliss!

Scaaty · #2 December 30th, 2006, 03:45 AM

Cold, choke it. Should have some kind of high idle on the throttle ..use it. Warm, turn the key.

Silvertip · #3 December 30th, 2006, 02:30 PM

Squeeze the primer bulb until firm. Raise the fast idle lever. Normally the choke/enrichener is activated by pushing in on the key. But if its on the dash, it works the same way. Turn the key to start and push in on it until the engine fires. Then quickly back the fast idle lever down a little. You may have to bump the key (choke) a time or two if the engine has a tendency to die during warm up. Lower the fast idle lever and away you go.

RLRick · #4 December 30th, 2006, 02:52 PM

Now THAT is what I was looking for. I will keep a copy your procedure in the boat. Can't Thank you enough my friend . . .

Solittle · #5 December 31st, 2006, 05:54 PM

That is a universal procedure but not cast in concrete. Seems some outboards have a personality all their own. You will find what works best for your engine.

RLRick · #6 December 31st, 2006, 07:16 PM

I assume that is a given. You have definately hit the nail on the head when you said that some outboards (like mine) have a personality all their own. I have been contemplating naming my motor "Knot Head" as it tends to do as it pleases.
Would like to be able to do more fishing than fiddling around with getting the thing started.
Thank you and the others for your friendly suggestions, as I can use all the help I can get . . .

New Guy