25 hp Mariner Not Getting Gas

[Wcummins1313]

Let me preface my post by saying my knowledge of small engines is very limited, so please be patient with me.

I bought a cheap pontoon with the hopes of fixing it up. I got everything cleaned and fixed up and ran the motor with no problem. Now that I have it in the like (of course) I'm having motor problems. The motor is a late 70's/early 80's 25 horse Mariner. I can get it started with the choke on and it will run for a minute or two before it putters out. I can extend this a little bit if I pump the ball more. Now I am not a mechanical genious, but I know it's not getting gas. I started at the tank and looked at the tube that goes into the engine and found no cracks or blockage. I replaced the whole fuel line/ball and fittings. I also replaced the fuel filter....but it still won't run. I am nearing the end of my knowledge... So I have two questions:

1. I followed the fuel line from the gas filter and found this plastic diaphragm looking thing. What is this? It looks in crappy condition. Could this be my problem?

2. If that isn't the problem, where do I go next?

Thanks in advance,

Clueless Minnesota Mechanic.

Edit : I tried to attach pictures of the plastic diaphragm, but it won't let me from my iPhone.

 

[minuteman62-64]

I believe that plastic diaphragm looking thing is your fuel pump. There is a membrane inside that does the actual pumping action - if it doesn't work properly, you'll have the symptoms you describe. You can dis-assemble the unit by taking out the Phillips head screws. Check the membrane inside to make sure it is intact and in place. If there's a problem, you can get a rebuild kit.

 

[Wcummins1313]

Ya, there six Phillips holding the diaphragm in place. I took those out and the diaphragm was not in good condition. Could I email you a pic of it?

 

[minuteman62-64]

Why not just post it here for all to enjoy Anyways, if not in good condition it needs to be replaced - can't be repaired.

 

[Wcummins1313]

This is what I'm talking about...

 

[Wcummins1313]

This is where it came from.

 

[minuteman62-64]

Looks like a candidate for replacement to me.