Need some good advice Please

[whpnspur]

I recently picked up a 1964 MFG Edinboro Custom. It is in great condition considering the years on it. It has a 90hp Keikhoffer/Mercury Ob on it. I am looking to bring it back into shape. I am having some problems with the chokes on the carbs. I know this is bad but...i have used a little lubricated starting fluid to get it going at times. It will then fire right up and I don't need to use it again for the rest of the day. I have replaced the fuel line and cleaned the tanks. It purrs great when running. I have had problems with the one coil wire coming off. Really just little things like these. This is a great boat, it just needs some tlc and hopefully i eventually will have it as original as I can. How can I fix the choke problem? Where can I find parts for it? Is there things that I need to look for in the future that may sneek up on me? Any help will be greatly appreicated!

 

[Wingedwheel]

Re: Need some good advice Please

If you keep using the starter fluid you'll have more than a choke problem. I'd suggest re-building the carbs and repalce the fuel-pump diaphram. Easy jobs and probably need it. My 02

 

[starcraft1982]

Re: Need some good advice Please

+1 on comment above.Also,in my somewhat limited experience w/old mercs.,they like/need ALOT of gas when cold.Im not sure you could flood one!Youre problem cold starting may be just that simple,however for your engines sake,do rebuild(clean at minimum)the carbs and do fuel pump kit while at it.PLEASE,NO STARTING FLUID.your motor is telling you somethings not right by not starting.Itll tell you even louder that somethings wrong if you keep using fluid!good luck

 

[usskydvr]

Re: Need some good advice Please

Like others have said, these motors LIKE lots of fuel to get going from a cold start.
Try this for first time cold start:
1 Pump fuel line primer bulb to just firm ( don't gorilla hand it)
2 Raise fast idle lever to about 45 degrees
3 Start cranking engine then immediately push and hold choke button until
engine starts to catch.
4 If it catches and starts, immediately release the choke button and slowly lower the fast idle lever.
5 If is doesn't start, release the choke button and try from step 3

Most early inline 6 engines have their own unique starting sequence.

p.s. make sure your choke linkage is working to close the shutters over the carbs

 

[merc850]

Re: Need some good advice Please

Take the cowling off and watch the carbs while you press the choke button, the solenoid should pull the butterflies upwards and close them completely, if not, there is an adjustment at the top of the linkage rod that pulls them.
Also if the choke solenoid itself is not clicking check the wiring including the cowl ground.