1957 seahorse fuel tank

[tyrel]

I have a 1957 seahorse 35 and I can get it to start but it won't stay running for more than a minute, I think that the fuel tank is losing pressure or something because if i pump it back up it will start. What can I do to fix this, this is my first boat motor so I'm just learning, any help would be welcome.
thanks
PS can someone confirm that the fuel mixture is 24:1 with a Johnson Seahorse 35 RD-19

 

[HighTrim]

Re: 1957 seahorse fuel tank

Welcome to iboats.

24-1 is correct. Your pressure tank is likely loosing pressure like you think. You can order a rebuild kit for them on ebay for about $35, not hard to do. Here it is.

http://cgi.ebay.ca/omc-johnson-evin...at_Parts_Accessories_Gear&hash=item45fa5b0909

If your hose is good, it is cheaper to just get the gasket kit without the hose, but only you will know from looking at it.

 

[tyrel]

Re: 1957 seahorse fuel tank

Okay, thanks a lot I'll get that gasket and hopefully that will get it running for more than a minute.

 

[HighTrim]

Re: 1957 seahorse fuel tank

They normally leak at the diaphragm first. The cork gasket is another spot. If you are going to rebuild it you will need the diaphragm here

http://stores.ebay.ca/Diamond-Marine-Products?_trksid=p4340.l2563

and the cork gasket here

http://stores.ebay.ca/Diamond-Marine-Products?_trksid=p4340.l2563

Hopefully that solves it. Also be sure that your air line connections are not leaking, and tight, as the air line is what keeps the pressure up once the motor is running. The pump on the tank only pressurizes the line to fill the fuel bowl. that is why your motor runs for a minute. Once the fuel is gone from the initial pressurization via the primer pump on the tank, the motor dies due to lack of fuel.