boat motor runs one day and not the next

Own a 87 Sea-swirl runabout I/O OMC cobra 3.0 with a Rochester 2 bll carb. Newly rebuilt carb, ran for about an hour yesterday in the yard at varying rpms, didn't run perfect but good. Today, cannot even get it started. When we attempt to start it, it seems starve of fuel, sputters and shuts off a few seconds later. Checked fuel supply, alternative fuel supply, filters, points, condenser, fuel pump, carburetor, fuel lines are not plugged, cap and rotor are new, plugs are new and gaped. Fuel pump is new, coil, interrupter switch, starter, and alternator. Previously had salt water in fuel supply and have tried to repair all affected parts due to salt corrosion. All performed electrical tests have resulted okay. If you have any further questions about specifics or advice on tests or functions to perform, that would be greatly appreciated.

Re: boat motor runs one day and not the next

The chances of cleaning up a carb that is corroded internally from salt water is somewhere between slim and none.

Re: boat motor runs one day and not the next

Don S said:

The chances of cleaning up a carb that is corroded internally from salt water is somewhere between slim and none.

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We had the carb rebuilt by professionals at a shop that all they do is carb work. We specifically asked if it would be ok and from their observations and my own I believe that it does seem to be ok. Not that you are wrong, but from what I can tell it is ok because of no actual corrosion. There was merely salt crystals inside that had built up.

Re: boat motor runs one day and not the next

How long ago was it actually run on the water? Kinda' sounds like you just got it, and I'm wondering if the drive is working free or if it's locking up.