I'm hoping to get some help with a problem I'm having. I have a 6 gallon pressure tank. On the last 5 or 6 occasions I've taken this boat out, after running for about an hour, when the fuel tank level approaches 1/4 full, the engine starts to die. It will be running along fine and then within about 3 seconds, it will slow and die with a few sputters and jerks. When this starts to occur, if I quickly press the primer button on the fuel tank it'll keep running for a few more seconds. If I continually press the primer rapidly, it will continue to run but with some sputtering and reduced power. This has been happening with surprising consistency on the last several outings.
My first thought was that something was wrong with the pressure tank. But I've since rebuilt it thoroughly several times -cleaned everything up, replaced all the gaskets, the disc valve and even the fuel pick-up tube. When running, the tank builds and holds pressure very well. I haven't been able to determine if the pressure relief valve is sticking or not, perhaps building up too much pressure? but that seem unlikely.
-The engine starts and idles easily and it runs well WOT. (until it doesn't, when the tank gets to 1/4)
-When it dies at around 1/4 tank, I can start it again without much effort after pressing the primer button.
-After it dies, I can start it and it'll run for several minutes without having to press the primer. The second time it dies, it'll start and run for a couple minutes, the third time about a minute, until eventually I have to press the primer continually to keep it running. Seems to be exponential. And this is something that has occurred consistently.
-I've noticed some excess fuel in the intake manifold but thought it's likely just from tilting the motor.
-Carbs were cleaned not too long ago, and needle valve and float were replaced.
-I haven't replaced the intake manifold gaskets, or inspected the reed valves which are both likely original.
Any idea what could be going on here? Should I go after the tank one more time?
Thanks
My first thought was that something was wrong with the pressure tank. But I've since rebuilt it thoroughly several times -cleaned everything up, replaced all the gaskets, the disc valve and even the fuel pick-up tube. When running, the tank builds and holds pressure very well. I haven't been able to determine if the pressure relief valve is sticking or not, perhaps building up too much pressure? but that seem unlikely.
-The engine starts and idles easily and it runs well WOT. (until it doesn't, when the tank gets to 1/4)
-When it dies at around 1/4 tank, I can start it again without much effort after pressing the primer button.
-After it dies, I can start it and it'll run for several minutes without having to press the primer. The second time it dies, it'll start and run for a couple minutes, the third time about a minute, until eventually I have to press the primer continually to keep it running. Seems to be exponential. And this is something that has occurred consistently.
-I've noticed some excess fuel in the intake manifold but thought it's likely just from tilting the motor.
-Carbs were cleaned not too long ago, and needle valve and float were replaced.
-I haven't replaced the intake manifold gaskets, or inspected the reed valves which are both likely original.
Any idea what could be going on here? Should I go after the tank one more time?
Thanks