Briggs and Stratton sputters under load

[Jim Blake]

Anybody have any experience with the Briggs and Stratton outboard?

Mine runs like a champ in the driveway but in the river it blubbers and won't run more than about 1/4th throttle.

It helps a little to give it a little choke but it's very disappointing that I can hardly go any faster than the trolling motor (BTW it's on the back of a 14 foot lightweight jon so its only pushing about 500 pounds fully loaded with me, the motor, the boat, gas and all).

I've cleaned the carburetor so I don't THINK that the carb's the problem although I'd be happy to take it apart again and double check my work. I also disconnected the governor (so that I could tell what the motor was doing without anything interfering).

I've also tightened or replaced the cheap connectors in the fuel hose with hose clamps so I SHOULD be getting no leaks there...... anyway it doesn't sound like an air leak/ vacuum problem anyway.

Well, all thoughts would be appreciated.

 

[steelespike]

Re: Briggs and Stratton sputters under load

The early motors had trouble with the rev limiter,as I understand it's not a governor I think it was causing low power.
I believe it would interupt the ignition if it over revved.

 

[Jim Blake]

Re: Briggs and Stratton sputters under load

The early motors had trouble with the rev limiter,as I understand it's not a governor I think it was causing low power.
I believe it would interupt the ignition if it over revved.

But the electronic rev limiter (the white plastic connector) has been disconnected.

Is there also a mechanical rev limiter/ governor?

Thanks,

Jim

 

[steelespike]

Re: Briggs and Stratton sputters under load

I don't think there is a mechanical governor.From your description I would say it has a fuel distribution problem.
Be sure all passages are clear.Classic symptom; fine in the driveway but struggles on the water.
Are you saying that if you advance the throttle to far it bogs down?Another indication of poor fuel supply.
Be sure the throttle opens fully and not beyond wide open position.
Be sure there is a strong blue spark. With an audible snap.
Try squeezing the primer bulb when it fades.