Optical Ignition System Trouble?

[Cstence]

I have a 2001 Johnson 150HP outboard with an Optical Ignition System 2000. First time I took it out it ran like a charm. Second time I sucked up a little water from my tank and had trouble. Was able to get out the water and the engine ran fine the rest of the day. After that trip I drained the tank, completely dryed it out, changed the fuel/water separator filter and filled the tank with clean gas. I also installed new plugs.

Upon putting the boat in the water I had a hard time starting it. When I finally did start it (I think maybe I had flooded it) it idled normally (1000 RPM) for about 30 seconds, then revved to about 2500-3000 rpm for another 30 seconds, cut back to idle and died. This was followed by difficulty in starting and more of the same (idle-rev-idle-die). At some point I pulled a plug and held it against the engine to look at the spark. The spark looked kind of weak.

Upon getting the boat home I went thru the OIS 2000 troubleshooting guide. At this point I believe I may have a bad powerpack.

My primary question is this: Could an ignition issue cause the idle-rev-idle-die scenario that I experienced? I checked the fuel filter and it was completely clean. Drained all carb bowls and they were clean for the most part.
Any comments would be appreciated!

 

[R.Johnson]

Re: Optical Ignition System Trouble?

When you say the engine will increase in speed for a short time, and then die. That sounds like an engine running out of gass.I'm taking for granted you have a built in tank. Did you check the anti-siphon valve? Can you keep the engine running with the primer bulb?

 

[reeldutch]

Re: Optical Ignition System Trouble?

i think you are flooding the engine.
i think you might have a needle not closing.

that for sure could kill it at idle and rev up perfectly.