Kicker, Main Fuel Problem

[bfraser4070]

Hello:

Thanks in advance for your respone.

I have a 2-stroke 225 Johnson with a 4-Stroke Mercury 9.9 kicker.

I am having fuel flow problems. The fuel flows from the tank to a water seperator. The seperator has two outflows, one to the main engine and one to the kicker.

When the main engine is running and the kicker NOT running, but is connected the main engine will eventually stall at trolling speeds. I have been just disconnecting the kicker when only using the main engine for trolling.

If the main engine is not running and the kicker is, the kicker will stall unless I pump the in-line pump/bulb (not what to call it) about ever 10 minutes.

The main tank does have an extra outflow port, should I install another line from the tank to the kicker? Would that line require a water seperator too? Does anyone have another suggestion?

Thanks again in advance.

 

[j_martin]

Re: Kicker, Main Fuel Problem

It sounds like check valves in the fuel pump of the kicker, or an air leak in any of the fuel lines somewhere. It doesn't take much.

If everything is in good shape, including the connectors, it should work.

hope it helps
John

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Kicker, Main Fuel Problem

personally, i would not use that system. on of the purposes is that the kicker is used in emergency, and should have a totally different fuel source. i don't believe the fuel pump on the kicker is strong enough to pull fuel thru the lines, separator. also without shut off valves either engine could be sucking air thru the other carb, if the floats drop. thus the pumps are loosing prime. the system needs to be altered so that the fuel source is just to one engine at a time. try disconnecting the main engine fuel line while running the troller. if this works then you definately need the cut of valves.

 

[bfraser4070]

Re: Kicker, Main Fuel Problem

Thanks for the replies.

Sounds like I can take 2 directions here.

If I went directly to the tank for the kicker do you suggest a in-line water seperator? Would I also then need a shut-off valve? What size fuel line would you suggest for a 9.9 kicker 1/4", 3/8" etc?


Thanks

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Kicker, Main Fuel Problem

9.9 1/4 should be fine, with a water separator that is right for that engine. i would also carry atleast a 3 gallon portable tank for it. the reason is if there is water in the maintank, and both motors run off it, both have a contaminate fuel supply, the kicker is easier to clear the water out, and 3 gallons will keep you turned to the wind, long enough to help to get there and tow you in. just recently a 30ft. center console capsized 30 miles off Daytona beach, because of a contaminate fuel supply, and no spare source of fuel.