While returning from an offshore trip cruising about 30mph, our engine (2001 Mercruiser GM 5.0 210hp w/2bbl Mercarb) suddenly began sputtering and slowly began losing rpms until it finally quit (14 miles out of the Pass). I tried restarting and it would run about 5 secs. then quit. After doing this 3-4 times, I changed the fuel filter out (cartridge) and started it again. I was able to run about 1 mile before it choked down and quit again. Repeated the process, but then I couldn't get it o ver 5 mph (about 1100 rpms) before it would crack, pop, and backfire. Having only one filter left, I elected to nurse it in at that speed so I could change it out before trying to go in the pass, which I did. I got through the worst of it before it started again, but was able to go about 5 mph for 3.5 miles to the dock.<br />Here's what I know:<br />1- I fueled with 93 octane at the same pump and same Exxon station every day for 8 of 10 days adding 15-30 gals a day.<br />2- It was our last 2 days, so I didn't fuel (trying to burn off weight for the tow home) and was down to about 25 gals on a 100 gal. tank.<br />3-Carb was rebuilt 1 year ago after experiencing same thing. It cured the problem but fuel tested okay on that incident.<br />4-I checked the fuel for water with a test kit... no water. Drained the fuel filter, again no water.<br /><br />Any ideas as to cause?<br /><br />Thanks in advance!
