Mercruiser 165 idle issues??

[snownut800]

Took my caravelle out for the first time ever last night after gettn it running Sun. It starts pretty good....mostly in first few cranks. I ran it around for a half hour or so but when I shift into nuetral or back into gear it likes to choke and sputter. I also was wondering...On the block it says 93 octane gas. Whats the status quoe ?? Do I run 93? I also was told by the guy I bought it from to use lead subsitute. How much?? The bottle he gave me doesnt have any mix ratios.
THANKS!!

 

[dubs283]

Re: Mercruiser 165 idle issues??

don't worry about adding a lead substitute, just run premium non-oxy (no ethanol) gas if you are worried

when was the last FULL tune-up??

 

[Fordiesel69]

Re: Mercruiser 165 idle issues??

There are too many unknowns. As a baseline, you need a tune up, and a set of points & condensor, set the gap to 0.020" and place one drop of oil on the felt. The on the carb, turn the two idle mixture screws in until they stop. DO NOT tighten them, just when you feel resistence. Then back out 1-1/4 turns each. Start and idle engine on muffs supplying plenty of water.

Feel the engine for the shakes, if it is rough and shakes, screw each in 1/4 turn, see if it smoothens...... From this point if you can get it to idle in neutral, you can set the idle speed screw when you are in the water and in forward gear per the manual.