1989 L-DRIVE Force top speed problems

[itsdangerdave]

I bought a 125 hp 89 force l-drive. it's an outboard motor on the inside of the boat 50:1 oil mix. I'm new to the boating industry. It hasn't been on the water for 5-7 years. I replaced the impeller and started it up it fired up fine in the drive way after replacing the fuel lines. I took it out on the water and went around fine until I gave it more throttle. it hit about 2000-3000 rpms and went no faster it only bogged down a little when I pulled back a little it resumed with no bogging. Every so often it acted like it was going to get up and go but didn't do anything. What could it be. I've got a outing with the scout Aug. 4-7 and little money and don't have a clue as to what it could be. Any quick fixes would be great.

 

[wrinspect]

Re: 1989 L-DRIVE Force top speed problems

Sounds like a fuel problem, fuel pump, or filter clogged, I had a Merc that the squeze ball disintigrated from the inside and clogged up the fuel line to the eng.

 

[Baldguy]

Re: 1989 L-DRIVE Force top speed problems

On the L drive...check the fuel filter screen to make sure that it's not clogged. Should be on the front of the motor, you should have seen it when you replaced the lines. I'd also double check your connection on your new fuel lines for any air leaks.<br /><br />You didn't mention if you put fresh gas in it. If not, that could be it.<br /><br />Did you replace the spark plugs? They're cheap. Take one out and go to Kragen with it and get them to match it. I forget the type and number on the plugs I used to have in mine...someone else here may know (I don't have the boat any longer, otherwise I'd check for you).<br /><br />You might also try decarbing it. Get some from West Marine if there's one in Victorville...if not get a can of Seafoam from Kragen. Follow the instructions on the can as to how use. You'll need to get to the carbs while it's running on the water.<br /><br />The mixture screws should be adjusted out about 1 1/2 turns on each carb. I wouldn't check this until I ruled other things out.<br /><br />Also, at a later time...get a manual through the internet or some other retailer for the 125 and the "L" drive...it helped me out many times.<br /><br />Depending upon the pitch you have on the prop...you should be turning about 4500-4800 rpms at full throttle and maybe doing about 40 mph.<br /><br />Hope this helps.