Hard starting carb engine - what it normal?

[Limestone]

Hi there: We have a 1988 Mercruiser 260 (5.7L) engine. The carb was just rebuilt and we are having trouble starting it when cold (works first time when warm). The mechanics are saying there is nothing wrong and it starts first time for them. Yesterday, I watched them start it when it was cold and they did the following: pump throttle 3 times, and put it at 20%. While turning the key, continue pumping the throttle once a second. After 12-13 pumps (15 seconds), the boat started. In the past, we would pump once, leave it at 20%, turn the key and it would start. <br /><br />Do you think there is something wrong with the boat now or is the behavior I described normal.<br /><br />Thanks (wishing I had EFI).

 

[RatFish]

Re: Hard starting carb engine - what it normal?

That's not normal. They are "blowing you off".

 

[Haut Medoc]

Re: Hard starting carb engine - what it normal?

Yes, you should not have to pump it that much. Esp. if you didn't have to before. Sounds like a choke problem.When its cold, take off the flame arrestor. The choke should be shut to make a richer mix.When warm the choke is open any way and the engine doesn't need a rich mix.I would't try to start the engine with the flame arrestor off, by the way.

 

[90skichallenger]

Re: Hard starting carb engine - what it normal?

Sounds like a choke problem, or maybe they didnt set the air/fuel mixture right.<br />I have found that alot of new mechanics arent real good with carbs. I have been working on motors for over 20 years and prefer carbs. They are great if they are set right. I would ensure the choke plate is dropping when you turn the key on.

 

[Haut Medoc]

Re: Hard starting carb engine - what it normal?

I left out the turn on the key part. Don't start it though.

 

[trog100]

Re: Hard starting carb engine - what it normal?

the choke isnt working.. course the pump could not be working.. their starting procedure is silly.. something isnt working properly..<br /><br />your old one pump 20% throttle (perhaps little a more throttle) during warm weather is how things should be..<br /><br />trog100

 

[llerrad]

Re: Hard starting carb engine - what it normal?

You can convert to throttle body, Holley has a converstion kit for marine. I agree with your pump once and 20%, I'm sure you will get lots back on check the choke control, how much choke you are getting on your first pump? choke should be closed full when cold. Hang on and the carb experts will be along soon to guide you as you have just had a rebuild, my call is the mech's are not willing to take the time to make it right.

 

[cc lancer]

Re: Hard starting carb engine - what it normal?

Boat I worked on Sat. had the same problem, idle circuit was stopped up, took me 15 minutes to get it cleared up. Q-jet's will not tolerate, dirt, corrosion, or water. I have worked on these carbs. since the 283 Chevy, and if it is clean, good fuel pressure, choke working properly, engine will crank.<br />My engine takes 2 squirts, pull back to idle position, and hit the starter, and its running.<br />You have a 350 Chevy engine in your boat, I would ask the mechanic, would it be proper to pump a car 12 times to get it running.

 

[Chris1956]

Re: Hard starting carb engine - what it normal?

Limestone, While I agree with the opinions here that two pumps, set throttle and start should work, I have seen the method your mechanic's use very often. Especially if the motor has not been run in a week, or the temperature is low.<br /><br />My motor used to start with the two pumps, set throttle and crank. I installed a water separator, and now I need to do the "pump while cranking" routine. There should not be a relationship there...

 

[Bondo]

Re: Hard starting carb engine - what it normal?

I installed a water separator, and now I need to do the "pump while cranking" routine. There should not be a relationship there...

Ayuh,..........<br /><br />I'd say Both of you Need Carb./Choke work done............<br /><br />There's No Reason you should have to Keep Pumping to start your boat........