Only runs on the first half tank of gas

[ED21]

I have a 1989 40hp tiller Johnson. The other day when the gas tank got down about half way the engine started surging & stalling like it was running out of gas. I finally poured more gas in the OMC 6 gal metal tank & it ran fine. I changed the bulb & will change the end fittings. The gas filter was clean. I haven't checked the tank yet because it is still full. The motor is uncommonly easy on gas. Also the bulb doesn't get very hard when pumped up. There are no apparent leaks.<br />Anybody have this happen to them?

 

[JB]

Re: Only runs on the first half tank of gas

Hi, Ed.<br /><br />Sounds like your pickup tube inside the tank has broken or bent.<br /><br />Good luck.

 

[ob]

Re: Only runs on the first half tank of gas

I second JBs' diagnosis.Sounds like you have a fracture in the tank pickup tube about halfway up or so.

 

[ED21]

Re: Only runs on the first half tank of gas

Thanks. I actually have the guage/pickup assembly from another tank that sprung a leak. I'll get a gasket & switch them out.

 

[ED21]

Re: Only runs on the first half tank of gas

Thanks JB & ob. You were right about my problem. The pickup tube was split from about an inch from the top to about halfway down.It's a wonder it worked at all. Now I know why the bulb wasn't getting hard. It never occured to me that the pickup tube could do that.<br />Ed