1987, 88 hp no hole shot power

[lbbudd2012]

Hello, I just replaced bearings, connecting rod and rings on this engine. The compression is around 120 in all 4 cylinders. On the ear muff it rev's up good. We have taking it in the water twice. When I go WOT it is very sluggish, no power and is using a lot more gas than it has in the past. Mechanically all of the connectors with the timing and carbs are good. I did not adjust anything during the rebuild. The engine sat for 2 yrs before rebuilding. Someone told me it sounds like the spark advance but I'm wondering if the carbs need a good cleaning or rebuild. I think my next step is to verify timing unless someone has a better idea. thanks

 

[emdsapmgr]

The engine may not be running on all 4 cyls. When it's well warmed up, check for spark on all 4 plugwires. (Best to do it when the engine is under load-next time you take it to the lake.)

 

[TD_Maker]

Do you want to hear something stupid? I had this exact motor at one time. This thing had a nasty habit of grabbing wires and connectors (with the hood latches) as the hood is being installed. Be sure to check the coil wires carefully....and be extra sure to check the little two pin (brownish) rubber connector leading from the power pack to the coils. I actually had the latches catch one of these little wires and pull it out just enough to shut down the cylinder. Problem is that the connector LOOKED normal, but the pin was the issue all along.