Can't pick up speed....any suggestions? Fellas?

I own a 1969 MERCURY 1000 V-6/ SERIAL NUMBER#2412423. I FIRST HAVE TO SPRAY STARTER FLUID INTO CARBS TO START IT THEN ITS FINE; BUT AT FULL THROTTLE I CANT GO FASTER THAN 15-20. I HAVE IT ON A 1968 LARSON DEEP V.

Re: Can't pick up speed....any suggestions? Fellas?

Howdy angler.

Welcome to iboats.

Yes. I have several suggestions.

* NEVER use ether in a 2 stroke engine. It has no lubricant and can destroy your engine. Use fuel mix and a spray bottle.

* Please review the main page so that you can post your question in the correct forum. I moved this from "Other Outboards".

* Please review your post before you post it. All caps is considered shouting.

When you get your motor started it is not fine. It is faking being fine but isn't making full power. Outboards are really good at faking being fine with no load on them then falling flat when you ask them to do some useful work.

There is at least one thing wrong. My guess is that you have one or two dead cylinders.

Please do not try to use your engine until you have it fixed. Continuing to try to use it will destroy it.

You need a Service Manual. Do the diagnostic tests in there and let us know what you find.

Good luck.

Re: Can't pick up speed....any suggestions? Fellas?

I don't have personal experience but::
69 Merc 1000 is a straight 6.I believe it has 3 carbs and at least 2 fuel pumps.
A belt driven distributor magneto.It also has a critical timing procedure and involved throttle linkage.I'd start with the basics:: does the throttle open all the way?Be sure it is running on all cylinders.Have you tried squeezing the primer bulb till good and firm especially when cold.
Any repairs require a service manual.The guys at Johns Old Mercury web site may be able to help.