I have a 2004 2 stroke 40 hp merc that won't stay running. It will start with the start lever up after several tries, but as soon as I put the start lever back down, it stops running. However, if I unplug the gas hose from the motor, it will start up and continue running until it uses up the gas in the motor. If I connect the gas hose while it is running, it shuts off immediately. I brought it to the mechanic and they cleaned the fuel filter and carbs (they said the carbs were gummed up), but when I got it back nothing had changed. Can anyone offer any suggestions?. Thanks.
