[Redmen]

I have a 1997 25HP 3cyl Evinrude electric start outboard. I have unhooked the oil injection system and am mixing oil in the tank. Last year the outboard began stalling at trolling speed. It then began to run at half speed even when the throttle was running wide open. This would happen intermittently. Then, there were times that I would start the engine cold, drive 2 miles to my fishing spot. Fish for 1 hour and the motor would not start. If I waited 20 - 30 minutes it would eventually start and would run at half speed and cut out on the way home. I thought it was a gas problem so I changed the gas filter and cleaned the carburetors. Still the same problem persisted. I took it to the Marina and they claimed that it needed a water pump. This was replaced but still it did the same thing. What else could this be? Does this sound like a power pack problem? How can I check this? Does anyone else have similar issues? Thanks.

[tashasdaddy]

have you checked you spark when it is messing up, the only way to tell. could be power pack, coil failing, crud back in the carbs. vent not open on the fuel tank. hose connected backwards, arrow on bulb, points toward motor.

[Redmen]

I've cleaned the carburetor out a few times. The vent is open on the tank and the hose is connected to the outboard correctly. I've changed the gas filter. What electrical things could it be? The power pack, spark plug wires, coil? I guess I need to get a spark plug tester and test each cylinder's spark when it happens. Is this how you would approach the problem?

[tashasdaddy]

yes, exactly, and immediately.