mercruiser 170 hp issue with starting

saltyseadog

Recruit
Joined
Jun 5, 2011
Messages
2
hi everybody,
this is my first real post and would like some help, from across the water.
i live in the uk and i have a well-craft 18 from 1986 with a mercruiser 170 engine and alpha one leg. engine serial number is A679428.
it is difficult to id as it is well worn sticker on the engine cover.
i bought the boat, and it has been sat in my drive for 3 years. i have another fishing boat with a mercruiser 220 6 cylinder turbo diesel, this has
been my day boat and i have enjoyed it very much.
i have decided to sort out the wellcraft, once and for all. my kids are now able to command a boat and it would be good to get the boat fixed.
sorry for the long description, but background info is important to me, anyway.
back to the issue.
i am reluctant to pay for leads, coil, carburettor, distributor, etc. if i do not need too.
i have a basic understanding of petrol engines but need help with my boat.
the issue is the starting and running.
i have set the timing, as per the manual. i have removed and cleaned the fuel tank. i have replaced the coil for a proper mercury one. i have installed a fuel water separator. i have installed a secondary fuel tank with a manual pump, as used in an outboard engine. i have checked the spark, all good.
when cold the boat will start , but runs a bit rough.
after a period it cuts out and will not start.
at this point i have too walk away and wait for the next day, otherwise i will take a big hammer to the engine!!
i think i have fuel problems and would like anybodies help with this matter.
Also when i engage forward and reverse they is a clung noise, if i do not do it quickly the boat cuts out.

so i have read a lot of info and have implemented all your advice, to no avail.
it somebody can help, i would appreciate it. in england petrol engine are a dirty word, due to the fuel price. $6.00 per gallon.
regards
paul
 

Bondo

Moderator
Staff member
Joined
Apr 17, 2002
Messages
70,465
Re: mercruiser 170 hp issue with starting

when cold the boat will start , but runs a bit rough.
after a period it cuts out and will not start.
at this point i have too walk away and wait for the next day, otherwise i will take a big hammer to the engine!!
i think i have fuel problems and would like anybodies help with this matter.

Ayuh,... When it quits, are the sparkplugs wet or dry,..?? What color are they,..??
My guess is the carb needs a rebuild...
Also when i engage forward and reverse they is a clung noise, if i do not do it quickly the boat cuts out.

The lower shift cable is Bad, replace it...
 

saltyseadog

Recruit
Joined
Jun 5, 2011
Messages
2
Re: mercruiser 170 hp issue with starting

bond-o
thanks for the reply

the plugs are wet, colour black.

i will get another shift cable
 

Bondo

Moderator
Staff member
Joined
Apr 17, 2002
Messages
70,465
Re: mercruiser 170 hp issue with starting

the plugs are wet, colour black.

Ayuh,... It's over-fuelin'....
Rebuild the carb, 'n reset the float levels...
 
Top