I've read many posts trying to solve my problem and think I've narrowed it down to the carburator. I have a 1978 165HP Mercruiser I/O that starts just fine cold and also starts fine right after shutting off the engine as long as it's restarted within a minute or two at the most. Let it sit for any longer and it just cranks and cranks. Points, cap, rotor, plug wires, coil are all new. Plugs are clean and in good shape. I've cleaned all terminals from the battery to the starter and solenoid. Compression is good, within specs. Carburetor was rebuilt recently. Engine runs great once started.
When I try to restart, I don't pump the throttle, I just move it forward maybe 1/4 of the way down, then turn the key. Out of frustration, i've even brought along starting fluid for the situations when it won't start, but that didn't work either. If I open the engine cover, remove the flame arrestor and let it air out, it eventually starts. So I'm guessing the engine is somehow getting flooded. Is it possible the carburator ports or jets are too far gone for a rebuild to help? Is it possible the carburetor is leaking after the engine is shut off? If so, is there a sure fire way to check for that problem? I'm just a weekend warrior mechanic and just know the basics so any input would be welcomed.
When I try to restart, I don't pump the throttle, I just move it forward maybe 1/4 of the way down, then turn the key. Out of frustration, i've even brought along starting fluid for the situations when it won't start, but that didn't work either. If I open the engine cover, remove the flame arrestor and let it air out, it eventually starts. So I'm guessing the engine is somehow getting flooded. Is it possible the carburator ports or jets are too far gone for a rebuild to help? Is it possible the carburetor is leaking after the engine is shut off? If so, is there a sure fire way to check for that problem? I'm just a weekend warrior mechanic and just know the basics so any input would be welcomed.