Mercury I/O B3 starting problems

pschlemm · #1 October 6th, 2007, 03:14 PM

OK, took the boat out today, no problems starting from the dock, the gas pump(filled it up in preparation for winter), or the pump out. Took a quick run for one last dip in the lake and when I got back on, engine wouldn't start - sounded like it was cranking fine. If I used throttle only, it would start with about 50% throttle, but would not idle. If I was quick, I could start with throttle only and then go to neutral and back in gear and it would run fine. Was getting two beeps from the smartcraft. It's a 2002 B3, 5 (or 5.3)L. Any ideas what could be causing this? Impellers where changed a year ago. Is vapor lock a possibility?

TIA.

Don S · #2 October 6th, 2007, 03:26 PM

Carbed or EFI?
How often are the two beeps, and when?

pschlemm · #3 October 6th, 2007, 08:10 PM

It's EFI. Beeps seem to be back to back and not very long - I would say that it's a beep beep

Don S · #4 October 6th, 2007, 09:40 PM

There are a number of problems that will give you 2 beeps per minute. This will limit your rpm to 90% with the 555 ECM.
Best thing you could do is get your Merc dealer to hook up the Diagnostic tool and check it out.
Might try pulling the fuel filter, dumping it into a clear container and seeing if there is water in it. Install a new filter, and prime with fresh clean gas.