Mercury (Tracker) 40hp 2001 Won't run at WOT

[simplefix]

I just bought a 2001 40hp Tracker engine and had it mounted on my 13 Whaler. The person who put it on said he cleaned the carbuerator. When we tried to run the boat it started fine, idled fine, but as soon as we shifted into forward and gave it even a little throttle it "shaked" pretty hard. When we took off it ran smoothly to about 3/4 throttle then wouldn't develop any more rpm and stuttered again. It seems like its gonna be a great engine just need to get through these quirks....it sat for over a year and I am sure it was not "winterized" before being stored. I have a little mechanical experience but maybe would like to tackle this myself. Any suggestions?

 

[DuckOfDeath]

Re: Mercury (Tracker) 40hp 2001 Won't run at WOT

It could be fuel related but a good first step would be to do a compression check. Second, make sure your getting spark to each cylinder with a timing light or spark tester.

 

[simplefix]

Re: Mercury (Tracker) 40hp 2001 Won't run at WOT

I did a spark check today...(like my brother used to do with our yamaha minibikes)...had my husband crank over the engine and had the spark plug in the spark plug wire but touching the block, they both had spark. I do not have the compression check thing but I know what it is....It did not start so well this afternoon on the hose so I was gently pulling and pushing on the tubes that come from the fuel filter, one of the hoses did not have the zip tie tight, after I snugged it up the engine started but was still very rough. Does anyone think I should just try to clean the carbuerator or should I just take it to a merc dealer. I don't love anyone close by and the summer is ticking away. Thanks for your help.

 

[simplefix]

Re: Mercury (Tracker) 40hp 2001 Won't run at WOT

Oh yeah the rest of the details, it is 40hp tracker (merc) 2001 serial # ot337862. The fuel tank vent is open, clean, new gas. I do know a little about turning a wrench (but I am a girl....and do not have many wrenches)

 

[DuckOfDeath]

Re: Mercury (Tracker) 40hp 2001 Won't run at WOT

How's your fuel line? Primer bulb holding pressure ok? See if you can keep it running by pumping on it. I would then check the fuel pump diaphram if the fuel line checks out.