Hard Starting when engine is cold

[markwarren]

Hi - I have a 4.3 Merc, 2002. It has turn-key starting, which is used to do quite well.

I've had the boat about 6 weeks. The first weekend I took it out, the battery was dead so I replaced it. The boat started up just fine the first 2-3 times on the water, with about 1 week in between outings.

Recently, it has become increasingly difficult to start. The engine cranks, but it started taking 5-10 seconds to run. Yesterday, it took 3-4 10-second attempts before it started, and then it died. Started again right away and it ran fine. The boat had been sitting for 2 weeks prior to be used yesterday.

It always starts immediately when the engine is warm.

Are there any obvious things I should look for prior to taking to the shop?

I'm most concerned that the situation appears to be getting progessively worse.

Thanks

 

[Alumarine]

Re: Hard Starting when engine is cold

Is this a carb engine or fuel infected?

 

[markwarren]

Re: Hard Starting when engine is cold

Is this a carb engine or fuel infected?

Specs state that it is a "2V Carb with Turn Key Start & Electric Fuel Pump"

I don't have a choke or primer bulb - supposed to just turn the key and it starts.

 

[Alumarine]

Re: Hard Starting when engine is cold

Sorry, don't know anything about turn key start.

Thought it might have had a choke.

Here's a bump though.